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Education
and so great certainty of fair return for their labor as does the tiller of
the soil.
In the study of agriculture, let pupils be given not only theory, but
practice. While they learn what science can teach in regard to the
nature and preparation of the soil, the value of different crops, and the
best methods of production, let them put their knowledge to use. Let
teachers share the work with the students, and show what results can
be achieved through skillful, intelligent effort. Thus may be awakened
a genuine interest, an ambition to do the work in the best possible
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manner. Such an ambition, together with the invigorating effect of
exercise, sunshine, and pure air, will create a love for agricultural labor
that with many youth will determine their choice of an occupation.
Thus might be set on foot influences that would go far in turning the
tide of migration which now sets so strongly toward the great cities.
Thus, also, our schools could aid effectively in the disposition of
the unemployed masses. Thousands of helpless and starving beings,
whose numbers are daily swelling the ranks of the criminal classes,
might achieve self-support in a happy, healthy, independent life if they
could be directed in skillful, diligent labor in the tilling of the soil.
The benefit of manual training is needed also by professional men.
A man may have a brilliant mind; he may be quick to catch ideas;
his knowledge and skill may secure for him admission to his chosen
calling; yet he may still be far from possessing a fitness for its duties.
An education derived chiefly from books leads to superficial thinking.
Practical work encourages close observation and independent thought.
Rightly performed, it tends to develop that practical wisdom which we
call common sense. It develops ability to plan and execute, strengthens
courage and perseverance, and calls for the exercise of tact and skill.
The physician who has laid a foundation for his professional knowl-
edge by actual service in the sickroom will have a quickness of insight,
an all-around knowledge, and an ability in emergencies to render
needed service—all essential qualifications, which only a practical
training can so fully impart.
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The minister, the missionary, the teacher, will find their influence
with the people greatly increased when it is manifest that they possess
the knowledge and skill required for the practical duties of everyday
life. And often the success, perhaps the very life, of the missionary
depends on his knowledge of practical things. The ability to prepare