101 Virtues to apply to your life, Number Ninety-three

 101 Virtues to apply to your life, Number Ninety-three

 

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-three

Take no salt or cut bread with your greasy knife.

The saying "Take no salt or cut bread with your knife greasy" comes from traditional table manners and reflects the virtue of cleanliness, respect, and consideration in shared settings. In modern language, it means maintaining proper etiquette and hygiene to show respect for others and the shared environment.

This virtue emphasizes being mindful of how your actions affect others, particularly in communal or social situations. It’s about keeping things clean, orderly, and respectful, whether at a dinner table or in broader contexts like workplaces, public spaces, or digital environments. It warns against carelessness (like using a greasy knife, which could dirty the bread or salt) that could inconvenience or disrespect others.

 

Hygiene in Shared Spaces

Wash your hands before handling shared food or items, like at a potluck or office kitchen. Clean up after yourself to leave spaces tidy for others.

 

Digital Etiquette

Be mindful of how you "leave" digital spaces. Avoid spamming group chats, cluttering shared drives with messy files, or posting inappropriate content on public platforms.

 

Respectful Resource Use

 Use shared resources thoughtfully, ensuring they remain usable for others. This applies to everything from office supplies to public amenities.

 

Mindful Communication

 Speak and act in ways that don’t “taint” conversations or relationships. Avoid gossip, offensive remarks, or careless words that could harm others.

 

Environmental Consideration

Be conscious of your impact on shared environments, like reducing waste or cleaning up after yourself in public spaces.

 

By practicing these habits, you embody the spirit of this virtue: showing respect and care for others through small, intentional actions in everyday life.