Christian Father and Mother
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atmosphere; she will regulate her temper and principles by the word of
God and will faithfully do her duty, living above the petty temptations
which will always assail her.
The perception of children is quick, and they discern patient, loving
tones from the impatient, passionate command, which dries up the
moisture of love and affection in the hearts of children. The true
Christian mother will not drive her children from her presence by her
fretfulness and lack of sympathizing love.
Mothers, awake to the fact that your influence and example are
affecting the character and destiny of your children; and in view of
your responsibility, develop a well-balanced mind and a pure character,
reflecting only the true, the good, and the beautiful.
Very many husbands and children who find nothing attractive
at home, who are continually greeted by scolding and murmuring,
seek comfort and amusement away from home, in the dramshop or in
other forbidden scenes of pleasure. The wife and mother, occupied
with her household cares, frequently becomes thoughtless of the little
courtesies that make home pleasant to the husband and children, even
if she avoids dwelling upon her peculiar vexations and difficulties in
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their presence. While she is absorbed in preparing something to eat or
to wear, the husband and sons go in and come out as strangers.
If mothers allow themselves to wear untidy garments at home, they
are teaching their children to follow in the same slovenly way. Many
mothers think that anything is good enough for home wear, be it ever
so soiled and shabby. But they soon lose their influence in the family.
The children draw comparisons between their mother’s dress and that
of others who dress neatly, and their respect for her is weakened.
The true wife and mother will perform her duties with dignity and
cheerfulness, not considering it degrading to do with her own hands
whatever it is necessary to do in a well-ordered household
The Head of the Family to Imitate Christ
All members of the family center in the father. He is the lawmaker,
illustrating in his own manly bearing the sterner virtues: energy, in-
tegrity, honesty, patience, courage, diligence, and practical usefulness.
The father is in one sense the priest of the household, laying upon
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The Adventist Home, 231-254