101 Virtues to apply to your life, Number Thirty One

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.

Number Thirty-One 

If anyone far Surpasses others, either in age, Estate, or Merit, yet would give Place to a meaner than himself in his own lodging or elsewhere, the one ought not to accept it, So he, on the other part, should not use much earnestness nor offer it above once or twice.

This passage is about the virtues of humility and mutual respect. The modern language suggests that if someone is clearly superior in age, wealth, or achievements, they might still humbly defer to someone less accomplished by offering them a better seat or a place of honor. At the same time, the less accomplished person shouldn’t immediately accept this gesture. The idea is to avoid excessive self-deprecation or false modesty, while the one offering shouldn’t insist too hard or make a big show of it; once or twice is enough.

Practically, this can play out today in small, everyday ways. For example, imagine a seasoned expert at work letting a junior colleague take the lead on a project or presentation, not because they doubt their own skills, but to show respect and encouragement. The junior colleague might politely decline at first, saying, “Oh, no, you’ve got more experience,” but if the expert insists lightly, “No, really, I’d like you to take this one,” they’d accept without dragging it out. It’s about balancing self-respect with generosity, avoiding over-the-top humility or pushiness on either side.

Consider an older person offering their seat to someone younger at a casual gathering in a social setting. The younger person might say, “No, please, you take it,” but if the offer’s repeated, they’d sit without making a fuss. The virtue here is keeping things gracious and low-key; nobody’s groveling or grandstanding. It’s a quiet way to honor each other’s dignity in a world that often obsesses over status.