13 Beautiful Virtues to Live By

Earlier last week I was reading another blog and she was discussing the “13 Virtues” of Benjamin Franklin. Apparently, he wrote these in 1726 when he was only 20 years old. These would be the principles that Mr. Franklin would adhere to and aid him in his path.

I was extremely impressed with these virtues and wanted to share them with anyone else who had no idea they existed.

1) Temperance– Eat not to dullness; drink not to elevation

2) Silence- Speak not but what may benefit others or yourself ; avoid trifling conversation

3) Order– Let all your things have their places; let each part of your business have its time

4) Resolution– Resolve to perform what you ought; perform without fail what you resolve

5) Frugality- Make no expense but to do good to others or yourself; i.e., waste nothing
6) Industry– Lose no time; be always employ’d in something useful; cut off all unnecessary actions

7) Sincerity- Use no hurtful deceit; think innocently and justly, and, if you speak, speak accordingly

8) Justice- Wrong none by doing injuries, or omitting the benefits that are your duty

9) Moderation- Avoid extremes; forbear resenting injuries so much as you think they deserve

10) Cleanliness- Tolerate no uncleanliness in body, cloaths or habitation  (wow!!!!)

11) Tranquility- Be not disturbed at trifles, or at accidents common or unavoidable
12) 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 

13) Humility- Imitate Jesus and Socrates
I thought this was a wonderful list and just had to share it. These are beautiful beliefs to have in your mind when living and I thank Mr. Franklin for sharing these with us. 
(photos via Pinterest)

2 replies
  1. Fiona Ferris
    Fiona Ferris says:

    I've seen a few of these around and it's lovely to see the whole list together, along with your beautifully curated images to elevate Mr Franklin's words even more. Thank you Mrs Shockley!

    • Mrs. Shockley
      Mrs. Shockley says:

      Thank you Fiona for stopping by! I have never heard of these before and just had to share them. I love the photos too. It does help elevate the virtues.

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