Cleanliness is next to godliness

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Phrase: Cleanliness is next to godliness

The phrase cleanliness is next to godliness has been around for ages.

It’s one of those sayings that grandparents love and even gets tossed around in some religious circles.

But what does it mean?

Growing up in a big family with not a whole lot of money, my mother always told me that cleanliness is next to godliness.

We didn’t have fancy clothes or the latest toys, but there was no excuse for being dirty.

Mom would say cleanliness is next to godliness, as she put the four young girls in the bathtub at the same time to save water.

At the time, it seemed like just another chore.

But as I got older, I realized there was more to her constant reminders that cleanliness is next to godliness.

It wasn’t about being prim and proper for outward appearances.

It was about pride and self-respect.

Clean clothes, a tidy house and good hygiene, were ways to show dignity, even when money was tight.

Cleanliness is next to godliness is about maintaining a healthy environment, both physically and mentally.

It’s about respecting yourself enough to practice good hygiene.

Sure, it connects to some religious ideas, but the heart of cleanliness is next to godliness is practical.

It teaches us to value our possessions, take care of our bodies, and create a sense of order in our homes, even when resources are limited.

My mom may have driven us crazy with her constant reminders that cleanliness is next to godliness, but now I understand.

She taught us a powerful life lesson disguised as a simple household chore.

So, brush your teeth before bed and always wear clean underwear.

Cleanliness is next to godliness.

This post is understandable by someone with at least an 8th-grade education (age 13 – 14).

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