Gibbs Rules and You

One of the longest running TV series that started in September 2003 is “NCIS” which is a spinoff from the popular “JAG” series. Currently NCIS has entered its tentieth season. The main character is Leroy Jethro Gibbs played by actor Mark Harmon. Gibbs is a retired Marine Sniper. Over his time as a Marine and a NCIS agent he develops “rules” to live by. Here are the basic rules. Rule #1: Never let suspects stay together. Rule #1: Never screw over your partner. Rule #2: Always wear gloves at a crime scene. Rule #3: Don't believe what you're told. Double check. Rule #3: Never be unreachable. Rule #4: The best way to keep a secret? Keep it to yourself. Second best? Tell one other person - if you must. There is no third best. Rule #5: You don't waste good. Rule #6: Never say you're sorry. It's a sign of weakness. Rule #7: Always be specific when you lie. Rule #8: Never take anything for granted. Rule #8a: Never assume. Rule #9: Never go anywhere without a knife. Rule #10: Never get personally involved in a case. Rule #11: When the job is done, walk away. Rule #12: Never date a co-worker. Rule #13: Never, ever involve a lawyer. Rule #14: Bend the Line, do not ever Break It Rule #15: Always work as a team. Rule #16: If someone thinks they have the upper hand, break it. Rule #18: It's better to seek forgiveness than ask permission. Rule #20: Always look under. Rule #22: Never, ever bother Gibbs in interrogation. Rule #23: Never mess with a Marine's coffee... if you want to live. Rule #27: There are two ways to follow someone. First way, they never notice you. Second way, they only notice you. Rule #28: You need help, ask. Rule #35: Always watch the watchers. Rule #36: If you feel like you are being played, you probably are. Rule #38: Your case, your lead. Rule #39: There is no such thing as coincidence. Rule #39a There is no such thing as a small world. Rule #40: If it seems someone is out to get you, they are. Rule #42: Never accept an apology from someone who just sucker punched you. Rule #44: First things first, hide the women and children. Rule #45: Clean up the mess that you make. Rule #51: Sometimes - you're wrong. Rule #62: Always give people space when they get off the elevator. Rule #69: Never trust a woman who doesn't trust her man. I like some of Gibbs’ rules but feel there are way too many for anyone to remember. When my kids were small I developed what I call “Rules of Engagement” or rules to live your life by. I’ve tried to maintain these rules throughout my life. They are: 1. God, family, country Always in that order 2. Family should never fight alone 3. Service and Charity never faileth 4. Avoid debt like you would disease 5. Ain’t no one happy unless Mama’s happy 6. Never give up if the task is just 7. Work smarter, not harder 8. Trust but verify 9. A soldiers way saves the day 10. Distraction kills 11. Don’t leave home without a knife or a gun 12. Be hard to offend or anger I would suggest developing your own “rules of engagement”. Write them down and live by them. Share them with your children and friends. Become better if you can! Semper Paratus Check 6 Burn