The Rules: A partial list

I have over the years compiled a series of Rules that I try to use to live my life. Some are funny, some were hard to learn, some were a joy to realize and some even involve guns.

This is the random list in Alpha order:

Act as though it were impossible to fail.
Admit your mistakes.
Always carry a Swiss army knife.
Always have a plan B.
Always remember the four rules of firearms 
Always respond right away when someone writes to you.
Always take an outstretched hand.
Always Vote.
Always wear seat belts.
Be a good listener.
Be a leader.
Be decisive. Even if it means you'll be wrong sometimes.
Be loyal.
Be modest.
Be organized.
Be polite.
Be positive and enthusiastic.
Be prepared.
Be quick to praise, slow to criticize.
Be romantic.
Be there for your friends and family in time of need.
Call your Mother, she misses you.
Consider the worst case scenario now and then and prepare for it.
Don't badmouth people behind their backs.
Don't be afraid to tell someone you love them.
Don't buy cheap tools.
Don't carry a grudge.
Don't discuss salaries with your coworkers.
Don't envy.
Don't fear death, only dying.
Don't gamble. (except friendly poker)
Don't interrupt.
Don't leave the toilet seat up, even at home.
Don't lie to yourself.
Don't make sarcastic remarks.
Don't nag.
Don't Panic.
Don't procrastinate.
Don't put up with racism from anyone.
Don't smoke.
Don't try to top other peoples stories.
Don't wish for yourself when throwing a coin into a fountian.
Drink skim milk.
Every day listen to some music you like.
Every day look for a small way you can improve your marriage.
Every now and then, dance the razors edge.
Every season, spend some time in a forest.
Every so often push your luck.
Give people a second chance, but not a third.
Honor other peoples beliefs.
Honor Police Officers and Firemen.
Honor Teachers.
Honor the elderly.
Honor tradition, yours and others.
Honor your parents.
Keep a journal, a life worth living is worth recording.
Keep an escape route open.
Keep it simple.
Keep secrets.
Keep several irons in the fire.
Keep your overhead low.
Know how to drive a motorcycle.
Know how to drive a stick shift.
Know how to throw a baseball.
Know how to type.
Laugh often.
Learn about other peoples beliefs.
Learn the general history of mankind.
Learn to grill, make stew, chili and breakfast.
Learn to handle all kinds of firearms safely.
Learn to listen.
Learn to live beneath your means.
Learn to maintain your own car.
Learn to make something beautiful with your hands.
Learn to play a musical instrument.
Learn to speak at least one foreign language.
Make long and short term goals.
Marry only for Love.
Measure people by the jokes they find funny.
Measure twice, cut once.
Moderation in all things, except Love and Justice.
Never buy another house without a fireplace.
Never cheat.
Never cut what can be untied.
Never forget your anniversary.
Never loan a lot money to a friend, you may lose both.
Never trust a politician.
Opertunity sometimes knocks very softy.
Own a good dictionary.
Own a good shotgun, handgun and rifle.
Own a great sofa, stereo and TV system.
Own a large library.
Pay your bills on time.
Read every day.
Read the Bill of Rights.
Read to children.
Relax.
Remember peoples names.
Return borrowed vehicles with the gas tank full.
Return everything you borrow, promptly.
Say "please" a lot.
Say "thank you" a lot.
Say what you mean and mean what you say.
Slow dance.
Stay in good physical shape.
Study the martial arts and their phylosophies.
Suprise loved ones with unexpected gifts.
Treat people the way you want to be treated.
Watch the sunrise now and then.
What is honored in your heart will be cultivated there.
When someone hugs you, let them be the first to let go.
Write at least one novel.

--Let me know if you have Rules you live by.