Training Youth in Moral Principles by Ida Fischer Carnahan

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Sep 5, 1907

Training Youth in Moral Principles

By Ida Fischer Carnahan

“As the twig is bent, the tree’s inclined.” How true this proverb is! As we look back upon our early training, and see habits that have grown with us, influences that have been felt, and little inheritances that have been woven into our lives by association, thus helping to form the present man or woman, we see the truthfulness of the proverb wrought in our lives.

Living in this age of the world, when all manner of vice and wickedness exists, a double responsibility rests upon the educators of the youth, not only to teach by word, but also by precept, the fundamental principles underlying a moral life. There are some principles upon which the majority of people can and do agree. Morals consist in the one great thought, “Whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them.” This covers the whole ground. This principle, planted and nurtured in the heart of the child, will bring its results. IDA FISCHER CARNAHAN.