"Share everything. Don't take things that aren't yours. Put things back where you found them"

Robert Fulghum’s words offer guidance on how to live harmoniously with others, reflecting core values often taught in early childhood but vital throughout life. The call to “share everything” reaches beyond possessions, encompassing knowledge, time, opportunities, and even empathy. Sharing opens doors to collaboration and mutual respect, fostering communities where individuals feel supported and connected. It’s an encouragement to adopt generosity as a way of life, inviting people to break free from isolation and build relationships based on reciprocity and trust.

The admonition “don’t take things that aren’t yours” underscores the importance of respecting boundaries, both tangible and intangible. It reminds us to acknowledge ownership, whether relating to material items, intellectual property, or the ideas and contributions of others. Such respect builds an environment of fairness, where people can pursue their work or passions without fear of exploitation or injustice. It also reinforces accountability, an essential ingredient for trust, helping to maintain balance in personal and communal interactions.

“Put things back where you found them” speaks to responsibility, consideration, and stewardship. When using shared spaces or resources, it’s essential to think about those who come after. This principle extends to caring for the environment, maintaining order in workplaces or homes, and preserving societal structures that benefit everyone. By conscientiously returning things to their proper place, individuals show mindfulness and consideration, reducing disorder and fostering a sense of shared ownership and reliability.

Together, these simple yet profound instructions capture the essence of ethical engagement with the world. They remind us that civility and cooperation start with small actions. Living by these principles nurtures trust and well-being within families, workplaces, and communities at large, promoting a way of life where everyone feels valued and empowered. Their simplicity is deceptive; practiced consistently, these rules can transform individual relationships and, by extension, the broader society.