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Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students
Unpromising Children
There are some children who need more patient discipline and
kindly training than others. They have received as a legacy un-
promising traits of character, and because of this they need the more
of sympathy and love. By persevering labor these wayward ones may
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be prepared for a place in the work of the Master. They may possess
undeveloped powers, which, when aroused, will enable them to fill
places far in advance of those from whom more has been expected.
If you have children with peculiar temperaments, do not, because
of this, let the blight of discouragement rest upon their lives. There
should be no loud-voiced commands, no unkind, exasperating words,
no harsh, severe, or gloomy expressions. Help them by the mani-
festation of forbearance and sympathy. Strengthen them by loving
words and kindly deeds to overcome their defects of character.
The work of “breaking the will” is contrary to the principles of
Christ. The will of the child must be directed and guided. Save all
the strength of the will, for the human being needs it all; but give it
proper direction. Treat it wisely and tenderly, as a sacred treasure.
Do not hammer it in pieces; but by precept and true example wisely
fashion and mold it until the child comes to years of responsibility.
When and How to Punish
The mother may ask, “Shall I never punish my child?” Whipping
may be necessary when other resorts fail; yet she should not use
the rod if it is possible to avoid doing so. But if milder measures
prove insufficient, punishment that will bring the child to its senses
should in love be administered. Frequently one such correction will
be enough for a lifetime, to show the child that he does not hold the
lines of control.
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And when this step becomes necessary, the child should be
seriously impressed with the thought that this is not done for the
gratification of the parent, or to indulge arbitrary authority, but
for the child’s own good. He should be taught that every fault
uncorrected will bring unhappiness to himself, and will displease
God. Under such discipline children will find their greatest happiness
in submitting their wills to the will of their heavenly Father.