Chapter 69—Courtesy and Kindness
Courtesy Will Banish Half Life’s Ills—The principle inculcated
by the injunction, “Be kindly affectioned one to another,” lies at the
very foundation of domestic happiness. Christian courtesy should
reign in every household. It is cheap, but it has power to soften natures
which would grow hard and rough without it. The cultivation of a
uniform courtesy, a willingness to do by others as we would like them
to do by us, would banish half the ills of life
Courtesy Begins in the Home—If we would have our children
practice kindness, courtesy, and love, we ourselves must set them the
example
Courtesy, even in little things, should be manifested by the parents
toward each other. Universal kindness should be the law of the house.
No rude language should be indulged; no bitter words should be
spoken
All may possess a cheerful countenance, a gentle voice, a courteous
manner; and these are elements of power. Children are attracted by
a cheerful, sunny demeanor. Show them kindness and courtesy, and
they will manifest the same spirit toward you and toward one another
Your courtesy and self-control will have greater influence upon the
characters of your children than mere words could have
Mutual Kindness Makes Home a Paradise—By speaking
kindly to their children and praising them when they try to do right,
parents may encourage their efforts, make them very happy, and throw
around the family circle a charm which will chase away very dark
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shadow and bring cheerful sunlight in. Mutual kindness and forbear-
ance will make home a Paradise and attract holy angels into the family
circle; but they will flee from a house where there are unpleasant
1
The Signs of the Times, September 9, 1886
.
2
The Signs of the Times, May 25, 1882
.
3
The Good Health, January 1, 1880, par. 6
.
4
Education, 240
.
5
The Review and Herald, June 13, 1882
.
320