I was cleaning out some files the other day and came across a copy of Ann Landers’ Golden Rules for Living. They first appeared in her column in December, 1986. They’re still very applicable today, so I thought I’d pass them on to you.
- If you open it, close it.
- If you turn it on, turn it off.
- If you unlock it, lock it up.
- If you break it, admit it.
- If you can’t fix it, call in someone who can.
- If you borrow it, return it.
- If you value it, take care of it.
This last one was not in the original list, but it’s a good one. It comes from my friend Mary Miller:
8. If you pull a chair away from the table,
kindly push it back.
Like them all, especially #8, when I was still a school librarian. At the end of each hour, I reminded the class that it was the maid’s day off and that they were to tuck their chairs back under the table. It drove me nuts to have to tour the whole library and push chairs back under the tables.
Here’s another one: If you say you’ll do it, then do it.
Dear Jody,
I like this rule. I will add it to the list. Thank you. Ross
Love these rules! If only everyone would abide by these rules, the world would be a much better place! HA! 🙂
Dear Shawna,
If everyone followed these rules half the time, the world would be an incredibly better place. I suppose it’s up to people like us to set the example. I hope all is well with you and your family in Des Moines and that you are moving lots of houses. I hope you have a wonderful evening. Ross
I wish Ann Landers would publish a GOLDEN RULES FOR USING THE CELL PHONE.
And yes – I like Jody’s rule too:)
Dear Selena,
Thank you so much for your comment regarding today’s reminder. I think we should put together a few rules for cell phone etiquette. I hope you have a wonderful evening. Ross