20 11 / 2011
josh leigh’s rules of life
(posted a translation of this on my russian blog last night as a follow-up to a chat with jays over pumpkin soup; the amount of responses was so overwhelming that i thought i’d post the original here)
Josh Leigh’s Rules Of Life
- protect the weak
- have fun
- expand your life experience
- communicate with people in person
- put some effort into looking good
- eat healthy
- don’t force yourself to do what you cannot do out of play
- celebrate
- spend time in solitude
- be aware of the pleasure you take in other people’s company
- make friends outside groups you fall into
- be patient with those who are angry
- look for the music that brings out the genuine you
- learn and teach whenever a chance occurs
- start conversations with strangers
- treat your home as a family member
- give homemade presents
- treat adults and children (and animals) with equal respect
- tell others why they matter
- challenge others and yourself intellectually
- admit mistakes and apologize, then move on
- if something bothers you, speak up, but without criticizing anyone
- share good food and wine with great people
- take time to look around
- when you get no for an answer, don’t take offence
- in a conversation, listen for how the person is feeling and what he/she needs
- get rid of stuff that doesn’t bring you joy anymore; donate rather than trash
- try things you’ve never done before
- suspend your judgement unless you know you are really well-informed
- spread the word about the books, films, music and ideas you enjoyed
- introduce people you know to each other
- be generous; on the flip side, accept help when you need it
- stand by your friends
- trust yourself
