From Enforcing To Affirming

From Enforcing to Affirming

As you make good manners more of a lifestyle, there is a danger to be aware of. The more seriously you take your manners, the more you’ll be tempted to judge others who don’t. The problem with that is that condemning others for their bad manners is just another form of bad manners.

It’s not up to you to enforce the good manners of others. However, it is helpful to affirm them. Practicing good manners isn’t just about being polite; it’s about affirming what’s best in others. Affirm a person’s value, and your good manners will be affirmed as well. And they may just start following suit.

People are always watching what you do. So be consistent in practicing good manners. Make it clear that you don’t do it out of obligation but because you care about what matters. That example will always speak louder than words.

“Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” —Matthew 5:16