“First – even in the most trivial matters, be fair and unbiased. Second – never deceive anyone, even in jest. Third – remain disinterested [in the outcome of any dispute], even in the most trivial matters. Seek out any possible opportunity to be of help to others. In any trouble and annoyance, judge yourself the more severely, while showing condescension toward others. Never make fun of or ridicule anyone. Never say anything good about yourself, and for the sake of others, do not think of yourself. Be more quiet than talkative, listen to others, and to the extent possible, avoid quarrels. Always try to avoid being idle. Don’t become impassioned; should you ever feel   that anger has so possessed you that it is difficult to control yourself, immediately fall silent, and if possible, go away. There is no person in whom there is not some kind of good. With your love, cover the evil in him, and pray to God on his behalf.”

– From ‘Parish Life’ of St. John the Baptist Cathedral in Washington DC

***Now and then we include a particularly thought provoking or inspiring excerpt not from one of our regular ‘Elders’***