Timeless Advice

In the pages of a recent copy of the Iowa Alumni Magazine (that being the University of Iowa, my alma mater), I found an excerpt from the school's 1939-40 "Code for Co-eds" which I found interesting. Some 70 years later, this exceptionally sound guidance is as valid now as the day it was written. For example:

Correspondence There are times when a written word is your duty to family and to the sacred bond of friendship. Letters of congratulation and sympathy written simply and sincerely should never be left undone if there is occasion for them.

Conversations To be a good conversationalist, you must have other people's interests at heart. In other words, you must be a good listener and use sparingly the little word "I." Don't tell all to perfect strangers who aren't really as interested in your private troubles as you might imagine. And limit your criticism of others. (my note: obvious application to the world of social media, also - where TMI and caustic comment runs rampant)

Work Ethic Bolster your bodily attendance in class or at work with a little mental and spiritual support. Just occupying your seat doesn't guarantee an education or a job.

Find Inspiration There are hundreds of interesting and exciting things to do on and off campus, and it's up to you to discover them. Don't hold your breath waiting for some obliging fairy godmother to cram your hours full of exciting entertainment. An occasional nap won't be amiss in your leisure time, or a pause in the evening to sweep in the magic of the sunset. (my emphasis)

Credit to Rosemary Chase, Betty Lu Pryor and Helen Ries, authors of the original Code, and to editor Tina Owen who wrote the article. (February 2011 Iowa Alumni Magazine)