Music: Peace Falling Like Autumn Leaves Whispers - Home Old New Orleans Nancy's Journal |
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The First Essential |
Most of the quotes on this page are from George Washington, but a few are from a book he once copied out by hand, "110 Rules of Civility and Decent Behavior." |
Associate yourself with men of good quality if you esteem your reputation. |
There is nothing which can better deserve your patronage, than the promotion of science and literature. Knowledge is the surest basis of public happiness. |
Perseverance and spirit have done wonders in all ages. |
I had rather be on my farm than be emperor of the world. |
Speak not injurious words, neither in jest, nor earnest; scoff at no one. Let your conversation be without malice. |
Guard against the impostures of pretended patriotism. |
We must never despair; our situation has been compromising before, and it has changed for the better; so I trust it will again. If difficulties arise, we must put forth new exertion and proportion our efforts to the exigencies of the times. |
Observe good faith and justice toward all nations. Cultivate peace and harmony with all. |
I hope I shall possess firmness and virtue enough to maintain what I consider the most enviable of all titles, the character of an honest man. |
Be not apt to relate news if you know not the truth thereof. Be not hasty to believe flying reports to the disparagement of any. |
I always hoped that this land might become a safe and agreeable asylum to the virtuous and persecuted part of mankind, to whatever nation they might belong. |
Happily, the government of the United States gives no sanction to bigotry and no assistance to persecution. |
Let your heart feel for the afflictions and distress of everyone. |
Few men have virtue to withstand the highest bidder. |
Let your discourse with men of business be short and comprehensive. |
Superfluous compliments are to be avoided, yet where due, they are not to be neglected. |
The best and only safe road to honor and dignity is justice. |
Speak not when you should hold your peace. |
Every action done in company, ought to be with some sign of respect to those that are present. |
Think before you speak. |
Truth will ultimately prevail where there are pains to bring it to light. |
Whatever the goal, good moral character is the first essential. |