These rules are not of my own creating but they are worth remembering. Check out the Rules of a Gentleman Tumblr page. Now that I’m a father I think of the lessons that I want to teach my own son. My own dad made manhood seem so natural. Nearly everything he taught me he did by doing himself. These tips make me think of the advice provided in “The Seven Spiritual Laws of Success”. “If you want joy, give joy to others; if you want love, learn to give love; if you want attention and appreciation, learn to give attention and appreciation.”

1. A gentleman is always presentable.
2. Live a passionate life, with a compassionate nature, and dispassionate judgment.
3. Talent is God-given. Be humble. Fame is man-given. Be grateful. Conceit is self-given. Be careful.
4. Opening a door for a lady is not optional.
5. A gentleman is one who puts more into the world than he takes out.
6. Nothing beats a good hat, so long as it is removed indoors.
7. Anything worth having is worth working hard for.
8. A Gentleman will never instigate a fight, but his is permitted to end one.
9. A Gentleman reads and reflects.
10. The best suits are tailored (ties should never be a focal point).
11. A Gentleman means what he says, and says what he means.
12. Be gracious in manner, humble in tone, and thankful for what is given.
13. A Gentleman lives beyond his zone of comfort.
14. The line between confidence and arrogance is very thin, and a Gentleman is aware of it.
15. Drinks are not meant to be mixed.
16. A Gentleman can drive stick-shift.
17. A Gentleman can jump if need be.
18. Know the difference between courage and stupidity.
19. A Gentleman is observant, and takes action without delay.
20. To a Lady, a Gentleman will readily offer both his coat and his hand.