Recreation
207
Our recreations should not be scenes of senseless mirth, taking the
form of the nonsensical. We can conduct them in such a manner as will
benefit and elevate those with whom we associate, and better qualify
us and them to more successfully attend to the duties devolving upon
us as Christians
The time spent in physical exercise is not lost. A proportionate
exercise of all the organs and faculties of the body is essential to the
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best work of each. When the brain is constantly taxed while the other
organs of the living machinery are inactive, there is a loss of strength,
physical and mental. The physical system is robbed of its healthful
tone, the mind loses its freshness and vigor, and a morbid excitability
is the result.
Those who are engaged in study should have relaxation. The
mind must not be constantly confined to close thought, for the delicate
mental machinery becomes worn. The body as well as the mind must
have exercise
Recreation That May Be Enjoyed by Rich and Poor Alike
Youth cannot be made as sedate and grave as old age, the child as
sober as the sire. While sinful amusements are condemned, as they
should be, let parents, teachers, and guardians of youth provide in their
stead innocent pleasures, which will not taint or corrupt the morals.
Do not bind down the young to rigid rules and restraints that will lead
them to feel themselves oppressed and to break over and rush into
paths of folly and destruction. With a firm, kind, considerate hand,
hold the lines of government, guiding and controlling their minds and
purposes, yet so gently, so wisely, so lovingly, that they will still know
that you have their best good in view
There are modes of recreation which are highly beneficial to both
mind and body. An enlightened, discriminating mind will find abun-
dant means for the entertainment and diversion, from sources not only
innocent, but instructive. Recreation in the open air, the contemplation
of the works of God in nature, will be of highest benefit
215
The Adventist Home, 493
216
The Adventist Home, 494, 495
217
Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students, 335
218
Testimonies for the Church 4:653