A Suggestion by Lora E. Clement

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Nov 18, 1915

A Suggestion

By Lora E. Clement

POLISH your shoes. Do it every day. If they are white, keep them spotless; if they are black or tan, keep them shining. The few moments spent in this way will form a link in the chain of great-little things which go to make the sum of a well-groomed man or woman.

Some people go serenely on their way, apparently oblivious of the fact that the polish does not rival the lasting qualities of their shoes. No one with neglected footgear appears well-dressed, even though he be clothed in purple and fine linen. One day a gentleman who adds to his name the symbols of at least three degrees passed through our office. His attire was faultless—almost: but by that “almost” I remember him. Oh! oh! how those Oxfords did clamor for attention! Their color was nondescript, but I think they had been black once in the long ago; the laces were carelessly knotted; and the edges of the soles carried a liberal supply of Washington’s red clay. Perhaps he considered shoe polish a nonessential; perhaps he had not “considered” at all, but was merely careless. However that may be, few of us can afford to neglect the little touches that count so much for neatness in personal appearance.

Shoes have been known to play a major part in the rôle of destiny. Their care may seem a very minor matter, but really it is no trifle. However high or lowly the “calling” you pursue, a commoner begs to offer this suggestion: Don’t forget to polish your shoes!

LORA E. CLEMENT.