Courtesy and Kindness
321
words, fretfulness, and strife. Unkindness, complaining, and anger
shut Jesus from the dwelling
The courtesies of everyday life and the affection that should exist
between members of the same family do not depend upon outward
circumstances
Pleasant voices, gentle manners, and sincere affection that finds
expression in all the actions, together with industry, neatness, and
economy, make even a hovel the happiest of homes. The Creator
regards such a home with approbation
There are many who should live less for the outside world and
more for the members of their own family circle. There should be less
display of superficial politeness and affection toward strangers and
visitors and more of the courtesy that springs from genuine love and
sympathy toward the dear ones of our own firesides
True Politeness Defined—There is great need of the cultivation
of true refinement in the home. This is a powerful witness in favor
of the truth. In whomsoever they may appear, vulgarity of language
and of demeanor indicate a vitiated heart. Truth of heavenly origin
never degrades the receiver, never makes him coarse or rough. Truth
is softening and refining in its influence. When received into the
heart, it makes the youth respectful and polite. Christian politeness
is received only under the working of the Holy Spirit. It does not
consist in affection or artificial polish, in bowing and simpering. This
is the class of politeness possessed by those of the world, but they are
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destitute of true Christian politeness. True polish, true politeness, is
obtained only from a practical knowledge of the gospel of Christ. True
politeness, true courtesy, is a kindness shown to all, high or low, rich
or poor
The essence of true politeness is consideration for others. The
essential, enduring education is that which broadens the sympathies
and encourages universal kindliness. That so-called culture which
does not make a youth deferential toward his parents, appreciative
of their excellences, forbearing toward their defects, and helpful to
6
The Signs of the Times, April 17, 1884
.
7
The Signs of the Times, August 23, 1877
.
8
The Signs of the Times, October 2, 1884
.
9
Ibid
.
10
Manuscript 74, 1900
.