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A Practical Training
Useful manual labor is a part of the gospel plan. The Great
Teacher, enshrouded in the pillar of cloud, gave directions to Israel
that every youth should be taught some line of useful employment.
Therefore it was the custom of the Jews, the wealthy as well as
the poorer classes, to teach their sons and daughters some useful
trade, so that, should adverse circumstances arise, they would not be
dependent upon others, but would be able to provide for their own
necessities. They might be instructed in literary lines, but they must
also be trained to some craft. This was deemed an indispensable
part of their education.
Now, as in the days of Israel, every youth should be instructed
in the duties of practical life. Each should acquire a knowledge of
some branch of manual labor by which, if need be, he may obtain
a livelihood. This is essential, not only as a safeguard against the
vicissitudes of life, but from its bearing upon physical, mental,
and moral development. Even if it were certain that one would
never need to resort to manual labor for support, still he should be
taught to work. Without physical exercise no one can have a sound
constitution and vigorous health; and the discipline of well-regulated
labor is no less essential to the securing of a strong, active mind and
a noble character.
Students who have gained book knowledge without gaining a
knowledge of practical work cannot lay claim to a symmetrical
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education. The energies that should have been devoted to business
of various lines have been neglected. Education does not consist in
using the brain alone. Physical employment is a part of the training
essential for every youth. An important phase of education is lacking
if the student is not taught how to engage in useful labor.
The healthful exercise of the whole being will give an education
that is broad and comprehensive. Every student should devote a
portion of each day to active labor. Thus habits of industry will
be formed and a spirit of self-reliance encouraged, while the youth
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