bits from bob....

Ten Commandments for Getting Along with People

posted by Robert J. Young
author unknown
[permission is given to reprint with credit noted]

1. Keep chains on your tongue. Say less than you think. Cultivate a low, persuasive voice. How you say it often counts more than what you say.

2. Make promises sparingly, and keep them faithfully, no matter what the cost.

3. Never let an opportunity pass to say a kind and encouraging word to or about someone. Praise work well done, regardless of who did it. If criticism is needed, criticize helpfully.

4. Be interested in others-interested in their pursuits, welfare, homes and families. Rejoice with those who rejoice; weep with those who weep. Let everyone you meet, however humble, feel that you regard him or her as an important person.

5. Be cheerful. Keep the corners of your mouth turned up. Hide your pains, worries, and disappointments under a smile. Laugh at good stories and learn to tell them.

6. Keep an open mind on all debatable questions. Discuss, but do not argue. It is a mark of superior minds to disagree, yet be friendly.

7. Let your virtues speak for themselves. Refuse to talk of others' vices. Discourage gossip. Say nothing of another unless it is something good.

8. Be careful of another's feelings. Wit and humor at another's expenses is rarely worth the effort, and may harm where least expected.

9. Pay no attention to ill-natured remarks about you. Live so nobody will believe them. Disordered nerves and bad digestion are common causes of backbiting.

10. Don't be too anxious about receiving what is due you. Do you work, be patient, keep your disposition sweet, forget self.