Breaking a Bad Habit

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Feb 4, 1915

Breaking a Bad Habit

ONE of the most trying faults of two impulsive boys proved to be a disposition to interrupt when some one else was speaking, in order to interpolate their own views, understanding of the matter, or comments. The disagreeable habit did not yield to explanations of the rudeness of the practice, nor to reprimands upon the numerous slips of this kind.

Each boy was the recipient of a small allowance of pocket money weekly to supply small personal and school needs, and the distressed mother noticed how eagerly plans were made ahead for its use. She determined to use this fact as a leverage of control.

Quietly she announced that at the least sign of a break in the way of the interruption of another’s conversation she should unostentatiously raise one forefinger. If this warning was not heeded, she would raise two fingers, which signal would mean a fine of five cents.

At the end of the first week both boys had not only lost their whole allowance, but were in debt besides; this, too, without a word of faultfinding or scolding.

The second week saw a decided improvement, and the end of the month proved the objectionable habit to be a bit of ancient history. — Selected.