The 10 Commandments of Common Sense: Wisdom from the Scriptures for People of All Beliefs

by Hal Urban

The author of Life's Greatest Lessons presents ten principles of practical wisdom to live by, drawn from readings of both the Old and New Testaments for people of all beliefs. Readers love Hal Urban's books for their common sense, their wisdom, and their inspirational affirmation of timeless values. With The 10 Commandments of Common Sense, he continues to build on his central theme -- that there's a direct relationship between good character and the quality of life. He also shows how the teachings of Scripture and the genuine practice of faith can be integral parts of a fulfilling existence. Urban draws on his own lifelong spiritual search -- which has included Protestant churches, the Catholic church, some Eastern philosophies, and human potential psychology -- to produce an ecumenical and nondogmatic examination of the Scriptures, finding in them clear and simple guidance for increasing both purpose and joy in our lives. Five of his principles are do's, as in "Keep a positive outlook on life" and "Bring out the best in other people." The other five are don't's, as in "Don't be seduced by popular culture" and "Don't judge other people." These ten commandments of timeless wisdom will inspire people of all faiths who are searching for more meaning and direction in their lives, no matter where it comes from.

Genres: Christian, Self Help, Nonfiction

259 pages, Paperback

First published September 18, 2007

About the author

Hal Urban holds a Bachelor's and Master's degree in history, and a Doctorate in education from the University of San Francisco. He has also done post-graduate study in the psychology of peak performance at Stanford University.

For thirty-six years he was an award-winning teacher at San Carlos and Woodside High Schools and at his alma mater, the University of San Francisco.

Hal is the author of six books - all with an emphasis on good character. His first book, Life's Greatest Lessons, was selected by Writer's Digest as the Inspirational Book of the Year. For more information about his writings click on the Books page.

Since 1992 Dr. Urban has traveled more than two million miles while speaking nationally and internationally on positive character traits and their relationship to the quality of life. He has made more than a thousand presentations in forty-two states, Washington DC, and eight foreign countries. Additional information about his talks can be found on the Speaking page.

In 2005 Dr. Urban was awarded his highest honor - the Sanford N. McDonnell Lifetime Achievement Award at the Character Education Partnership National Forum.

Hal has a genuine love of life that includes several passions, chief among them are the three F's - faith, family, and friends. His other main interests and activities are physical fitness, reading, sports, travel, photography, and life-long learning.

Reviews

[Reagan Rowland · Rating 5 out of 5]

We should all try to live by this book. It's well worth the read. Sometimes we just need to be reminded.

[Shannon Tapia · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was great! Love the Dirty Thirty and still use it till this day. Great for learing and schools

[Jerald Veit · Rating 4 out of 5]

The sections on the destructiveness of anger and the value of positive thinking would by themselves be worth picking up this book. The related Bible citations from the Old and New Testaments were also helpful. I read the Spanish-language version from the public library (Los Diez Mandamientos del Sentido Comun). Well worth reading no matter which language you choose.