Individuality
45
be much more important to some than to others. The same principle
applies to speakers. Some speakers dwell at considerable lengths on
points that others would pass by quickly or would not mention at all.
Thus the truth is presented more clearly by several than by one.—MS
87, 1907.
Individuality Not to Be Destroyed—The Lord does not desire
that our individuality shall be destroyed; it is not His purpose that
any two persons shall be exactly alike in tastes and dispositions. All
have characteristics peculiar to themselves, and these are not to be
destroyed, but to be trained, molded, fashioned, after the similitude
of Christ. The Lord turns the natural aptitudes and capabilities into
profitable channels. In the improvement of the faculties God has given,
talent and ability are developed if the human agent will recognize
the fact that all his powers are an endowment from God, to be used,
not for selfish purposes, but for the glory of God and the good of our
fellowmen.—Lt 20, 1894. (HC 90.)
[425]
Every Child to Have Individuality—A child may be so disci-
plined as to have, like the beast, no will of its own, his individuality
being lost in that of his teacher. As far as possible every child should
be trained to self-reliance. By calling into exercise the various facul-
ties, he will learn where he is strongest and in what he is deficient. A
wise instructor will give special attention to the development of the
weaker traits, that the child may form a well-balanced, harmonious
character.—
The Review and Herald, January 10, 1882
. (
Fundamentals
of Christian Education, 57
.)
Marriage Does Not Destroy Individuality—Neither the husband
nor the wife should attempt to exercise over the other an arbitrary
control. Do not try to compel each other to yield to your wishes. You
cannot do this and retain each other’s love. Be kind, patient, and
forbearing, considerate, and courteous. By the grace of God you can
succeed in making each other happy, as in your marriage vow you
promised to do.—
The Ministry of Healing, 361
(1905).
Husband and Wife to Preserve Individuality (counsel to new-
lyweds)—In your life union your affections are to be tributary to each
other’s happiness. Each is to minister to the happiness of the other.
This is the will of God concerning you.
But while you are to blend as one, neither of you is to lose his or
her individuality in the other. God is the owner of your individuality.