Being George Washington - Week 1

Being George Washington - The Rules of Civility & Decent Behavior in Company and Conversation. 

Week 1

 1. Every action done in company ought to be with some sign of respect to those that are present.

This Rule by good ole George slightly confused me.   My parents taught me to always be respectful, as I am positive George's parents did to.  So did this rule only confirm his upbringing, or was there more to it... some unspoken words and knowing what they meant without him having to say it?  Did this apply to some custom that was more normal in his day and has become lost over time?  Instead of continuing to try to get into his head or travel through time, I decided to just do what I thought best.  Continue being polite.  Don't interrupt others.  After all, being respectful of others is simply realizing you are not the only human in the world and to put those other humans before yourself.

2. When in company, put not your hands to any part of the body not usually discovered.

This makes me laugh- I can't help it.  I think of little boys... Why?  Because I have one.  Although he is growing up and maturing, the memories of my son's nude escapades will always amuse me.  There was a reason he held the title of the "Church Nudist" or the "Church Stripper" at the ripe age of 2.  However, I don't think that's what Washington meant, which only makes me wonder (and cringe) "What did he mean?"  Part of the body not usually discovered...  My first thought are parts more private..come on - you thought it too!  On the other hand - or in this case, body part- it could be as simple as not lifting your pant leg up to scratch your ankle.  I saw someone scratching and picking at something underneath their shirt sleeve the other day...  kinda grossed me out.  My conclusion for this rule is:  If it itches, go somewhere private to scratch it!  Don't gross everyone out!

3.  Show nothing to your friend that may affright him.

I really didn't know what I was going to do with this one, then through an unexpected experience, it came to me.  Recently, a fellow employee resigned.  Part of his sending off party was to wear fake mustaches in honor of his.  Being always ready for a challenge, my dear friend and cousin Ashley and I held a little contest to see who would wear theirs the longest.  I really didn't think anything of this, since I sit in my cubicle without anyone but fellow employees seeing me, which they already had.  That day proved to be different.  Not only did people come by, they came to see me!  As soon as I turned around and they saw me, everyone would jump in shock.  I did not do this on purpose, I was not warned of their coming!  Now this was all done in good humor and everyone had a good laugh at it, which makes me wonder why George found this rule to be of necessity.  I have no conclusion for this one.  Just more questions...
Did he not like a good joke?  Did it anger him when someone jumped out from a tree and spooked him?  Or does he mean something else? 

In next week's blog, I will report on Rules 4-5, which are:
 
4. In the presence of others, sing not to yourself with a humming voice, or drum with your fingers or feet.

5. If you cough, sneeze, sigh or yawn, do it not loud but privately, and speak not in your yawning, but put your handkerchief or hand before your face and turn aside.