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Section 9—The Management of Sanitariums
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No one is to spend his time longing to do the impossible, forget-
ting ordinary daily duties in a desire to do something great. Round
after round, from the lowest round, the ladder must be climbed—it
may be by painful effort. But success comes with diligent effort,
and the progress made is of great value to the earnest striver for
victory....
By their actions those connected with our institutions give proof
of the worth, or worthlessness, of their judgment. Those who en-
ter the service of the institution with a spirit of unwillingness to
help, who do their allotted tasks with a feeling of compulsion, in
sullen submission, who act as if they would gladly escape from the
drudgery of the necessary daily duties which someone must do, are
very little help to the institution. A mechanical obedience may hide
the smoldering fire of rebellion, but it is ready to break out at any
time against restraint. In the service of such there is no peace or
light or love. The atmosphere surrounding their souls is not fragrant.
The influence of their words and actions is felt by others, and this
influence is a harm even to those who are trying to do their best in
any position in which they are placed. Self-pity is deteriorating to
the characters of those who cherish it, and it exerts an influence that
spoils the happiness of others.
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Patient Dealing with the Erring
The one who is placed in charge of such ones should in no case
fret or scold. He should not give way to impatience or lose his self-
control. Take them by themselves, and tell them that such exhibitions
cannot be permitted, that their spirit must be changed. Tell them
that to educate themselves to think that they need sympathy is the
most foolish thing they can do. Pray with them; then give them their
task, as God gives us our tasks. He has given to every man his work,
according to his several ability.
If, after these youth have been fully and patiently tried, they
make no change, let them be plainly told that they cannot be retained
in the institution. Let their place be given to those who will not be
such a burden to the institution....
There is to be no slavery. The service of all is to be cheerful and
willing. But those who train the youth in our institutions have one