101 Virtues to apply to your life, Number Ninety

 101 Virtues to apply to your life, Number Ninety

 

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 Ninety

Speak not Evil of the absent, for it is unjust.

This virtue means avoiding harmful or unfair criticism of someone who isn’t present to defend themselves. In modern terms, it’s about refraining from gossip, slander, or bad-mouthing others behind their backs, especially when it’s unverified or biased.

 

Practical application today

Pause before speaking negatively.

If tempted to criticize someone absent (e.g., a coworker, friend, or public figure), ask, “Would I say this to their face?” or “Is this fair without their side of the story?”

 

Redirect gossip

In social or workplace settings, if others start bad-mouthing someone, steer the conversation to neutral topics or say, “Let’s give them the benefit of the doubt until we know more.”

 

Check your digital footprint.

On social media or group chats, avoid posting or sharing negative comments about individuals who can’t respond. For example, don’t pile on in a thread, tearing someone down without evidence.

 

Promote fairness

 If you hear rumors or criticism about someone, encourage others to verify facts or consider the person’s perspective before judging.

 

This fosters trust, respect, and integrity in in-person or online relationships and counters the modern tendency to judge quickly or spread negativity without accountability.