Chapter 25—Simplicity
Educate in Natural Simplicity—The little ones should be edu-
cated in childlike simplicity. They should be trained to be content with
the small, helpful duties and the pleasures and experiences natural to
their years. Childhood answers to the blade in the parable, and the
blade has a beauty peculiarly its own. Children should not be forced
into a precocious maturity, but as long as possible should retain the
freshness and grace of their early years. The more quiet and simple
the life of the child—the more free from artificial excitement and the
more in harmony with nature—the more favorable it is to physical and
mental vigor and to spiritual strength
Parents should by their example encourage the formation of habits
of simplicity, and draw their children away from an artificial to a
natural life
Unaffected Children Are Most Attractive—Those children are
most attractive who are natural and unaffected. It is not wise to give
children special notice.... Vanity should not be encouraged by praising
their looks, their words, or their actions. Nor should they be dressed in
an expensive and showy manner. This encourages pride in them and
awakens envy in the hearts of their companions. Teach the children
that the true adorning is not outward. “Whose adorning let it not be
that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or
of putting on of apparel; but let it be the hidden man of the heart, in
that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet
spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price.”
1 Peter 3:3, 4
[140]
The Secret of True Charm—Girls should be taught that the true
charm of womanliness is not alone in beauty of form or feature, nor in
the possession of accomplishments; but in a meek and quiet spirit, in
patience, generosity, kindness, and a willingness to do and suffer for
others. They should be taught to work, to study to some purpose, to
1
Education, 107
.
2
The Signs of the Times, October 2, 1884
.
3
Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students, 141, 142
.
102