Beating Others With The Club Of Etiquette
“Every action done in company ought to be with some sign of respect to those that are present (George Washington’s Rules of Civility & Decent Behavior by George Washington, written some time around 1746).
I’ve seen etiquette used in two ways. One is to make yourself superior to those around you (e.g., think of Bingley’s sisters in Pride and Prejudice). And the other is quoted above, to show respect to those around you.
We so easily take something like etiquette—which was designed to love our neighbor—and turn it into something that harms our neighbor.
It’s like being proud of our humility. While it sounds absurd to say out loud, if you’re a human, you know you’ve done it.
Whatever you think about etiquette, simply showing respect to those around you will do you well.
What do you think?
Joseph
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Disclaimer: I'm not your pastor, lawyer, accountant, economist, doctor. I’m a regular guy who wants the freedom to love and enjoy God, my wife, my kids, and my work. And I believe pursuing that freedom will make it easier for others to do the same. This isn’t professional advice. If you need professional advice, talk to a professional.