I redecorated my powder room this year. In
keeping with my obsession with the Beach House look, I wanted to
do something fun and casual. The first thing that popped into my
head while I was standing in the doorway studying the space was
"Cabana Bath House". Yeah! That would do it. So, that's what I did.
Several days later, as I was adding the final
touches, I fretted that one wall really needed something, I didn't
know what, but was sure I didn't want the typical art thing. Experimenting,
I tacked up our collection of old post cards from all the beaches
and water resorts we have enjoyed over the years. One thing lead
to another and before I knew it I had also put up a collage of family
vacation photos. Then I had one last inspired idea. I drew up a
list and called it, Bath House Rules, and put it in the center with
the photos all around it.
For the past few months, every time I enter
this small, cheerful room, I have to smile. It's like having a mini
vacation to the beach just to be in there. I never tire of looking
at the photos and the post cards, having added a couple of new ones
this past summer from Jamaica and Seaside, Florida. But it is the
Bath House Rules that has become the focal point. Whenever guests
ask to use the powder room, I smile wryly as I point the way. I
always know why they take longer than usual. They are reading the
rules. They always come out smiling, sometimes, chuckling, even.
Recently, I was reading them again and realized
there was something more to the Rules than that which meets the
eye. I chewed on it awhile. Gave it time to work in. Finally, I
found I could apply every one of the Bath House Rules to a grander
scale than just the requirements for the fair and efficient use
of a public facility. This is what I discovered:
To loiter is not only defined as lingering
idly and without purpose, it is also defined as "wasting time".
So here's a good first rule for life - if you can't figure out how
to fill whatever time you have been given with good purpose, at
least have the courtesy to get out of the way and give others a
chance to use what is available. And for pete's sake stop whinning
because you are bored.
2. Conserve water - two minute showers
Well, here's a no-brainer - be a good steward
with your resources and you'll have enough to last you until you
don't need them anymore but those who come along behind you will
have the opportunity to do the same.
Keep your CSQ (common sense quotient) fine-tuned
and you won't ever be needlessly subjected to nasty surprises.
4. Not responsible for articles left
behind
By simply holding yourself accountable at
all times, though you might experience regret, you'll never suffer
the frustration and helplessness of "victim syndrome".
5. Turn off shower completely
Pull your head out of the fog and pay attention
to the details around you. Treasure is often in the little things
you let trickle away into the cracks.
6. No paper towels or feminine products
in the toilet
This one is subtle but nonetheless significant.
Cultivate a healthy curiosity. Ask "why?" once in awhile. If you
don't care about the mechanics of life, so long as everything works
magically when you flip a switch or turn a handle, you'll be forever
dependent on others in one way or another. A little nickel knowledge
can come in real handy when you least expect it. You don't have
to understand quantum physics to be mindful of how a septic tank
works. This skill will apply across the board.
The defining hallmark of a mature emotional
intelligence is engaging in the unconscious habit of having consideration
for others, especially and particularly those you will likely never
meet.
8. Turn off light when leaving
What will your legacy be when you have finished
taking advantage of what life has made available to you and you
make your final exit? Will it be said of you that you left this
world better than you found it? If nothing else, you would be fortunate,
at the very least, to have it said of you that the world is none
the worse for wear and tear for the few minutes you spent here.
