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

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

 

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-five

If you soak bread in the sauce, let it be no more than what you put in your mouth at a time, and do not blow on your broth at the table, but stay till it cools of itself.

 

This virtue emphasizes moderation, patience, and etiquette. In modern terms, it suggests eating mindfully, taking only what you can comfortably consume, and waiting patiently for food to cool rather than rushing. 

 

Practical application today

Mindful eating 

Take small, manageable bites to savor food and avoid overeating. For example, serve yourself a portion you can finish without waste.

 

Patience 

Let hot food or drinks cool naturally instead of blowing on them, showing restraint and composure. This can extend to waiting calmly in other situations, like pausing before responding in a heated conversation.

 

Table manners 

To show respect in social settings, practice polite dining habits, such as chewing quietly or not reaching across others.

 

These habits promote self-control and consideration for others in everyday life.