101 Virtues to apply to your life; Number Nine

 Let’s explore the book of virtues that George Washington copied at 14 and followed throughout his life. These virtues are based on Aristotle's writings but have been enhanced over the centuries. We can translate them into modern language and find practical ways to apply them.

 

#9

Spit not in the Fire, nor Stoop low before it neither Put your Hands into the Flames to warm them, nor Set your Feet upon the Fire especially if there be meat before it.

This virtue concerns respect, self-discipline, and consideration for others in shared spaces, particularly around something as essential and communal as fire. In modern terms, we can break it down as follows:

           Modern Interpretation:

Respect Shared Spaces & Resources

       Just as a fire was once a central gathering place, we have shared spaces like offices, break rooms, public transportation, and even online communities today.

       Avoid behaviors that make shared spaces unpleasant for others (e.g., making a mess, being disruptive, or treating common areas carelessly).

Practice Self-Control & Safety

       The rule discourages reckless behavior around the fire, which can be extended to modern safety concerns:

       Be mindful of your actions—don’t put yourself or others at risk (e.g., ignoring fire safety, texting while driving, or handling hazardous materials carelessly).

Show Consideration for Others

       The reference to not placing your feet near food implies hygiene and awareness of how your actions affect others.

       In today’s world, this means being mindful of personal space, keeping communal areas clean, and not engaging in behaviors that could make others uncomfortable (e.g., playing loud music in public or eating pungent food in small shared spaces).

Practical Application Today:

At Work

  Don’t leave a mess in the breakroom, be mindful of noise levels, and respect shared resources.

In Public Spaces

   Avoid littering, respect personal space, and be mindful of how your actions (like loud conversations or using speakerphone in public) affect others.

At Home

   Show respect to family and roommates by keeping common areas clean and considering noise and shared responsibilities.

Online

   Avoid behaviors that disrupt digital spaces, such as spamming, oversharing, or engaging in toxic discussions.

Essentially, this virtue teaches us to act with awareness, respect, and consideration in all aspects of life, especially in communal settings.