Cheerfulness at the Table

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · May 18, 1911

Cheerfulness at the Table

“An old lady who looked as if she might have belonged to the Sunshine Society all her life, was asked by a friend for the secret of her never-failing cheerfulness. “I think,” said she, “it is because we were taught in our family to be cheerful at table. My father was a lawyer with a large criminal practise; his mind was harassed with difficult problems all day long; yet he always came to the table with a smile and a pleasant greeting for every one, and exerted himself to make the table hour delightful. All his powers to charm were freely given to entertain his family. Three times a day we felt his genial influence, and the effect was marvelous. If a child came to the table with cross looks, he or she was quietly sent away to find a good boy or girl; for only such were allowed to come within that loving circle. We were taught that all petty grievances and jealousies must be forgotten when meal-time came; and the habit of being cheerful three times a day, under all circumstances, had its effect on even the most sullen temper.”

Much is said and written these days about table manners. Children in well-bred families are drilled in a knowledge of good form as to the use of the fork and napkin, and proper methods of eating. This is well; but training in the most important habit a child should have, that of cheerfulness at table, is too often neglected.—Selected.