Length: 532 Words     Reading Time: 2 Minutes

I was born in Philadelphia in 1943, grew up in the 50s, and came of age in the early 60s. From my vantage point, the 1950s were a wonderful time in America because a sense of community was still in fashion, and so were family values, neighborhood pride, and patriotism. Kids walked or rode their bicycles to school, played football and hose-ball in the streets, and went to church on Sundays. The city and the neighborhoods were safer then, and we knew most everyone in our neighborhood. Neighbors looked out for one another. As kids, we tried to live by the credo that “sticks and stones may break our bones, but names will never hurt me.”

I have several friends who keep telling me that we cannot go back to the 50s. I agree in principle with that assertion, but I also push back and tell them that we can borrow traditions and social behaviors from that decade. And this is the easiest of tasks because it does not cost any money and we can start right away. Here are a few ideas that come readily to mind if we want to create a more civil and courteous society as we had back in the 50s. I will number them for ease of reference.

1. Be courteous and kind towards everyone, regardless of status or circumstances.

2. Open doors for strangers, as well as friends and family.

3. Drive the speed limit at all times and stop at stop signs and traffic lights.

4. Say good morning or good evening to everyone you meet during your day.

5. Say “thank you” and “yes, sir,” and “yes, ma’am” when appropriate.

6. Give everyone the gift of attention in conversations and discussions.

7. Respect everyone’s privacy.

8. Stop using profanity and especially, the F-word.

9. If you borrow something from someone, return it.

10. Sweep your front sidewalk or the area in front of your house.

11. If you make a mistake, admit it.

12. If you hurt someone’s feelings, tell them you are sorry and mean it.

13. Learn to say, “pardon me” or “excuse me” when necessary.

14. Return shopping carts to the store or the cart holding areas.

15. Don’t litter and if you see litter in the streets, pick it up and dispose of it.

16. Keep your commitments.

17. Always speak the truth.

18. Strive always to be a gentleman or a lady.

19. Do as many activities as a family as you possibly can.

20. Have dinner as a family as many times during the week as possible, but especially on Sunday.

21. Be a role model for younger people.

22. Be careful what you watch on television and the Internet.

23. Limit your television viewing time to one or two hours a day.

24. Read something of substance every day.

25. Put down your smartphone and talk to people.

As this list demonstrates, we can change our society if we want to. It is easy to do, and all it takes is discipline and commitment. Join me on this journey back to the 50s in spirit. Let’s make America a great place to live, work, and prosper.