Dancing
347
considered harmless at home will not long be regarded dangerous
abroad. It is yet to be ascertained that there is any good to be obtained
from these amusements. They do not give vigor to the body nor rest
to the mind. They do not implant in the soul one virtuous or holy
sentiment. On the contrary, they destroy all relish for serious thought
and for religious services. It is true that there is a wide contrast between
the better class of select parties and the promiscuous and degraded
assemblies of the low dance house. Yet all are steps in the path of
dissipation.
The amusement of dancing, as conducted at the present day, is a
school of depravity, a fearful curse to society. If all in our great cities
who are yearly ruined by this means could be brought together, what
histories of wrecked lives would be revealed. How many who now
stand ready to apologize for this practice would be filled with anguish
and amazement at the result. How can professedly Christian parents
consent to place their children in the way of temptation, by attending
with them such scenes of festivity? How can young men and young
[400]
women barter their souls for this infatuating pleasure?—
The Review
and Herald, February 28, 1882
.
The Danger of Amusements
The love of pleasure is one of the most dangerous, because it is one
of the most subtle, of the many temptations that assail the children and
youth in the cities. Holidays are numerous; games and horse racing
draw thousands, and the whirl of excitement and pleasure attracts
them away from the sober duties of life. Money that should have
been saved for better uses—in many cases the scanty earnings of the
poor—is frittered away for amusements.—
Fundamentals of Christian
Education, 422
.
Guided by Principle
Many are so fearful of provoking unfriendly criticism or malicious
gossip that they dare not act from principle. They dare not identify
themselves with those who follow Christ fully. They desire to conform
to worldly customs and secure the approbation of worldlings. Christ
gave Himself for us “that He might redeem us from all iniquity, and