The New Ten Commandments

Every so often you hear about someone trying to place a representation of the Ten Commandments in a school or government building and why not? As many love to declare, this country was founded with Judeo-Christian beliefs, right? But then someone else complains, people start yelling “separation of church and state” and things get ugly very quickly.

Personally, I can understand both sides. Some of the commandments listed DO make sense for society’s general well-being. However, like many who would complain, I also feel uneasy about the public posting of a document that DOES seem to promote a particular religious point of view. This dilemma has inspired me to compile a secular list of commandments. They may not have been passed down to me from a deity, but that fact doesn’t make them any less viable or true.

1. Promote a mutual respect and tolerance toward one another.
2. Do not knowingly lie or deceive, whether through speech, writing or implying in any manner.
3. Strive to forgive one another.
4. Do not murder one another.
5. Betray not the love or trust afforded you by another.
6. Do not steal from one another.
7. Take heed the wisdom of your elders.
8. Do not knowingly cause another undue hardship or pain.
9. Avoid the temptations of excessive Wrath, Sloth, Gluttony, Envy, Lust, Greed and Pride.
10. Embrace the virtues of Wisdom, Knowledge, Courage, Humanity, Justice, Temperance and Transcendence.

These commandments are not intended to be unbreakable laws, but basic principles of self and society so as to nurture a more peaceful co-existence with all mankind. Sometimes a situation dictates that in order to do the “right thing” a commandment must be broken. However, such situations are rare at best and to error on the side of these principles is usually the better path.


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