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A Cultured Woman

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Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Nov 9, 1916

FromReview and Herald, Vol. 93, No. 56.

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A Cultured Woman

THE other day in the country I was visiting some friends who were living the simple life, and were rather “roughing it” for the summer. Such people always have a good time, because they bring the good time with them.
A young woman was visiting them, one who has traveled much, and who has seen considerable of the world in other countries; but if any girl ever “fitted in,” this girl did.
Although accustomed to all the good things of life, she was unspoiled; and her attitude toward those about her spoke louder than words as to the inside culture that was hers.
She could not be comfortable herself unless everybody around her was comfortable. She was cordial and gracious to strangers, and she made you feel at once that you had known her a long time.
Consideration is the fundamental principle of the kind of culture this girl has. Nothing seemed too much for her to do to give pleasure, and she seemed to get pleasure in doing it.
She is the kind of person you want to invite to your house, because you know she will be “no trouble.” She is the kind of person who has no foibles and fancies that she is always thrusting upon you. She takes things as they come, and meets them.
She does not make one feel her superiority, because of her advantages. She thinks meekly, and therefore will always grow.
She has a kindly attitude toward every one she meets, and immediately puts all at ease, whether housemaid or honored guest.
I could not help reflecting that here was genuine culture, not the kind that you spell with capital letters, and that you put on a pedestal, something you think you can never reach; but the real thing itself.
It is good to behold. I have seen it in many a young woman of poverty, and in many a lowly laborer. It is not a matter of society, but a matter of self; not a matter of book learning, but an appreciation of life. It need not be born, but it may be acquired by keeping in close touch with the golden rule.—Selected.