p. 29 | An Experience by Mrs. V. J. Farnsworth

Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · May 13, 1902

An Experience

By Mrs. V. J. Farnsworth

I HAVE often wished to come into closer touch with our canvassers by having a part in their work; for passing through similar experiences gives perfect fellowship and sympathy. While in New Zealand, I determined to make an effort to canvass; for, in common with all our people, I expected to sell at least ten copies of “Christ’s Object Lessons.” I relate this experience not because there is anything wonderful to tell, but to encourage some who are as diffident as myself, and who have as little prospect of success as I had.

The hardest thing about the whole business was to begin. One who thinks he knows, said that I stood half an hour on the street corner before daring to enter a house. My feelings were similar to those of one who is going to a dentist, and who stands in dread on account of it. It seemed as though courage would never come. After reading some encouraging statements in the little leaflet, “The Relief of the Schools,” I finally went to the door of a poor-looking house, knocked, and was admitted. No doubt the most inexperienced canvasser would have smiled to hear that first canvass, but the Lord knew how much the effort cost, and I have dared to hope that his smile was one of approval. Surely the words were lame and faltering enough so that almost any one might improve on them. The next lady visited was unable to read, and said the book would be of no use to her, but she enjoyed looking at the pictures and hearing a few sentences read. By the time the third canvass was made, I fancied it was a little better than the first two, and the

lady gave an order for the book. That was the only order obtained while working an hour and a half. The next trial resulted in two orders after an hour’s work. As my time was so occupied with other work, I could spend only two or three hours a day canvassing.

I had wished for some time to canvass for “The House We Live In,” and fearing there would not be another opportunity, devoted a little time to this book. This resulted in some pleasant experiences, which would take too much space to relate. Finally the work became so interesting that it was a source of real regret that it could not be longer continued. I thought that five or six orders a day was not bad for a beginner, and I feel sure that if no other work was at hand, a very good livelihood might be made with that book.

Of this I am absolutely sure: If our brethren and sisters will take hold earnestly to sell “Christ’s Object Lessons,” it will bring to them the greatest blessing they ever experienced. The Lord says there is a blessing in it. I want my share of the blessing, and expect to get it by selling my share of the books. This work will open up a broad field of usefulness among our neighbors and friends. It affords an excellent means of getting acquainted with strangers. It presents the truth in such a way as not to arouse prejudice. They cannot help being charmed with its beauty if they have any conception of truth. To me my experience while canvassing is of great value, and the time may come when I shall wholly engage in that work. — Mrs. V. J. Farnsworth, in The Union Record.