Tuesday, November 14, 2006

Benjamin Franklin Virtues

Our first literature exam is tomorrow. One of the things we're likely to have to do is do a perfect rendition, or as perfect as possible, of Benjamin Franklin's thirteen virtues. For the benefit of all involved, here they are...and they're pretty good even if you're not having to memorize them for an exam...

  1. Temperance

Eat not to dullness; drink not to elevation.

  1. Silence

Speak not but what may bring benefit to yourself or others; avoid trifling conversation.

  1. Order

Let all your things have their places; let each part of your business have its time.

  1. Resolution

Resolve to perform what you ought; perform without fail what you resolve.

  1. Frugality

Make no expense but to do good to others or yourself; i.e. waste nothing.

  1. Industry

Lose no time; be always employed in something useful; cut off all unnecessary action.

  1. Sincerity

Use no hurtful deceit; think innocently and justly; and, if you speak, speak accordingly.

  1. Justice

Wrong none by doing injuries, or omitting the benefits that are your duty.

  1. Moderation

Avoid extremes; forbear resenting injuries so much as you think they deserve.

  1. Cleanliness

Tolerate no uncleanliness in body, clothes, or habitation.

  1. Tranquility

Be not disturbed at trifles, or at accidents common or unavoidable.

  1. Chastity

Rarely use venery but for health or offspring, never to dullness, weakness, or the injury of your own or another’s peace or reputation.

  1. Humility

Imitate Jesus and Socrates.



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