Elizabeth was very introspective and poured out her inner thoughts in her diaries. Although she enjoyed dancing and singing and sometimes joined her sisters in flirting at parties, she felt remorseful afterwards.

Just before her 18th birthday, she wrote some rules to set herself on “a steady foundation.”

First, Never lose any time; I do not think that [time] lost which is spent in amusement or recreation, some time every day; but always be in the habit of being employed.

Second, Never err the least in truth.

Third, Never say an ill thing of a person, when I can say a good thing of them; not only speak charitably, but feel so.

Fourth, Never be irritable nor unkind to any body.

Fifth, Never indulge myself in luxuries that are not necessary.

Sixth, Do all things with consideration, and when my path to act right is most difficult, feel confidence in that power that alone is able to assist me [a reference to her religion] and exert my own powers as far as they go.

I wonder what rules 21st century teenagers would set themselves if on a path of self improvement?

Tagged with: childhood • commentary • Elizabeth Fry • featured • morals