controversial lessons to impart to her daughter." />
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Why I’ll Instil the 7 Deadly Sins in My Daughter [Guest Post]

Rules - they’re essential to make the world go round. And they’re everywhere. Many are unspoken, and have - should we dare to break them - minor consequences…

I’m talking about social etiquette, of course.

I’ve been giving this a lot of thought and I think social etiquette can take a long walk off a short plank. Here’s why…

According to its laws, I should not:

  • Complain about poor behaviour/service;
  • Question a friend or relative who says they’re fine - but are actually being really weird and are blatantly not okay;
  • Say ‘no’ for fear of offending;
  • Speak up if the bill is unfairly split, because it looks rude on my part…;
  • Say I don’t want dessert and then forage off my hubby’s plate. (This one might be justified.)

Essentially, social etiquette dictates I should not - under any circumstances - rock the boat.

But guess what? I like swimming. So I do rock the boat; frequently. I rock the boat so damn hard I capsize the boat. All. The. Time.

I rocked the boat when hubby had his tools stolen and the insurers didn’t want to pay out; I did it again when our landlady tried to stitch us up; and on too many other occasions to count. Oh, and when friends or family let me down? Yep, then too.

But this is - almost without exception - against the better judgement of most people around me. When others are inwardly furious but steadfastly refusing to stir the waters on which their vessel floats, I rage and pitch!

Actually, these days, I’m usually quite calm about it - more like the shrewd shark who circles stealthily below the surface - upending my mark when they least suspect it…

I may have got a little carried away with my analogy, but the sentiment is genuine. And I fully intend to instil these values in my daughter: if something feels wrong then at least try to put it right. It’s rare anybody else will take it upon themselves to do that for you out of the kindness of their heart - particularly when large corporations are involved, with fat cats at the helm.

With this in mind, it occurred to me that even the most provocative traits can have a positive interpretation. So, based upon the 7 Deadly Sins but with a contemporary twist, here are the controversial lessons I wish to impart to my daughter:

Greed, or For the Purposes of This Post (FPTP) Selfishness

Society would have it that greed is bad in every situation. Alas, that same society will take you for a ride time and again; listen to your mother and learn early on that saying no is good for your health. Just be polite about it - there’s no need to screech ‘NOOOOOO' in your work-shy team leader’s face. An assertive, ‘I’m sorry, I’m swamped. I really can’t take that on right now’ will suffice.

person pushes boulder

Pride, FPTP Sense of Entitlement

That same colleague would have you believe it’s unattractive to be ‘entitled’. Well, yes, there’s a fine line - but don’t dare believe you’re any less deserving than your peers. Particularly work-shy peers. In 2016 I wish this were not the case, but given your anatomy you’re already starting on the back foot - work hard and strive to accomplish your dreams.

Wrath, FPTP Being Confrontational

If confrontation is the work of the devil then you, my Darling, are devils spawn; because any relationship I maintain I do so because it’s genuine - and I like to think people respect me for that. It sure makes me respect others when we’re able to have an adult conversation, air our differences - and move on. Be brave and have that awkward discussion - what’s the worst that could happen? If they’re keepers, you’ll strengthen your rapport. And if not, consider it necessary pruning.

Envy, FPTP Competitiveness

If you see what somebody else has and you want a piece of that pie - go get it. So long as you’re making your own way and not treading on anyone to get there, there’s nothing shameful in a little competition.

Lust, FPTP Self-esteem

Likewise, despite what society may have you believe about enjoying your body in every way you can - it’s yours to do with as you wish. Use it wisely, treat it with care - and yes - rejoice in it. Everybody deserves that, it’s a basic part of being human.

person lying on grass looking up

Gluttony, FPTP Enjoyment of Food

I’m afraid that being a disgusting pig is always, unfortunately, being a disgusting pig. However - I do advocate the occasional indulgence. Just, you know, have a little restraint. At least in public. And do some exercise to counteract your gratification.

Sloth, FPTP Laziness

Idleness is not something I condone. That said, lack of downtime is a modern epidemic: we all do too much, too fast, too often. So I absolutely promote slowing down and taking the time to be present and mindful. That’s not laziness, it’s common sense. Remember this quote (and please remind me of it frequently, too):

"No one on his deathbed ever said ‘I wish I had spent more time on my business."

- Paul Tsongas

These life lessons are by no means an excuse or a blessing from me for my little girl to go out into the world and be a tyrant. I simply want her to know she has permission (not that she needs it) to be true to herself, in every way.

For the sake of clarity, courtesy and being polite are separate and hugely important. In fact, Pixie was saying please and thank you before she could speak (she signs). If a gesture of kindness is of no personal cost, then it’s the proper and decent thing to do. Generosity of spirit which tips over into personal harm is what I actively discourage: nobody likes a martyr.

My greatest hope is that with honesty and integrity - which should include kindness and compassion by default - there will be little room for regrets.

Like this guest post? Read other great guest posts on our blog, like Colour Me Anna’s Dining Out with Kids Survival Guide or What Would Karl Do’s fantastic playtime images.