Benjamin Franklin’s Plan of Conduct
Those who write of the art of poetry teach us
that if we would write what may be worth the reading, we ought always,
before we begin, to form a regular plan and design of our piece:
otherwise, we shall be in danger of incongruity. I am apt to think it is
the same as to life. I have never fixed a regular design in life; by
which means it has been a confused variety of different scenes. I am now
entering upon a new one: let me, therefore, make some resolutions, and
form some scheme of action, that, henceforth, I may live in all respects
like a rational creature.
1. It is necessary for me to be extremely frugal for some time, till I have paid what I owe.
2. To endeavour to speak truth in every
instance; to give nobody expectations that are not likely to be
answered, but aim at sincerity in every word and action — the most
amiable excellence in a rational being.
3. To apply myself industriously to whatever
business I take in hand, and not divert my mind from my business by any
foolish project of growing suddenly rich; for industry and patience are
the surest means of plenty.
4. I resolve to speak ill of no man whatever,
not even in a matter of truth; but rather by some means excuse the
faults I hear charged upon others, and upon proper occasions speak all
the good I know of everybody.
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