LESSON 7. Following the Rules

 

Reading

Following the Rules

 

Every society has its own rules and its own way of keeping order. If the people living in a society obey these rules, they can live together peacefully and safely. Rules make life more pleasant and comfortable for everyone.

It's like playing games. Without rules games are impossible. If players don't follow the rules, the games cannot continue. And without rules society is impossible. When we break society is impossible. When we break social rules, we cause problems for everyone and the society will be in trouble. For example, how do you feel if your friend doesn't keep his promise?

All the players in a game must follow the rules. And all the people in a society must obey the law. Law and social rules are made for all, not for just a few. Let me tell you a story about Winston Churchill, a very famous British prime minister.

One day Winston Churchill was on his way to Parliament to make an important speech. He was in a hurry because he was afraid he was going to be late. He told his driver to go as fast as he could, so the driver went very fast. He even ignored traffic signals because he knew how important Mr. Churchill's speech was.

Suddenly a policeman pulled up beside them. He signaled them to stop.

 

Driver : Don't you know who this is? This is Prime Minister Churchill! He is on his way to Parliament to make a speech.

Policeman : He certainly does look like Mr. Churchill. But surely Mr. Churchill's car would obey the traffic laws! You ran through the red light and also broke the speed limit. You must pay a fine.

Mr. Churchill : I was wrong to break the law. You are a good policeman and you have taught me a lesson.

 

The next day Mr. Churchill talked to the chief police officer.

Mr. Churchill : I want you to promote the policeman who stopped my car yesterday.

Officer : I'm sorry, Mr. Churchill, but that isn't possible. It would be against the law.

Mr. Churchill was very surprised, but he was glad. He had learned that the policemen were responsible and doing a good job. He understood the importance of law and knew it had to be fair.

We can make our society better by respecting laws and social rules. When every one in a society cooperates, the society will run smoothly.

 

 

Dialogue 1

상호 부모님이 식당에서 시끄럽게 떠드는 아이들을 보며 대화한다.

 

Waiter : May I take your order?

Mr. Kim : Two steaks, please.

Waiter : How would you like them?

Mr. Kim : Both medium-rare.

(Waiter leaves.)

Mrs. Kim: Those children at the next table are so noisy!

Mr. Kim : I wonder why their parents don't tell them to be quiet.

Mrs. Kim: They should teach their children to think of others.

 

Dialogue 2

상호와 마이크가 야구 경기를 보기 위해 매표소 앞에 줄 서 있다.

 

Sang-ho : This line is so long!

Mike : I'm tired of waiting.

Sang-ho : So am I, but I really want to see the game.

Mike : Look! That man is cutting in at the front of the line!

Sang-ho : How can he be so selfish?

Mike : It's a pity that everyone doesn't follow the rules.

Sang-ho : Yes, he should learn to take his turn.