The Blessings of Hygiene.
By JOS. CLARKE
It is universally admitted that good health is the greatest of all earthly possessions; and that without this priceless gift, all other advantages are powerless to procure happiness. The wasted invalid may own untold wealth, may be surrounded by fond friends and dear relations who are unwearied in their efforts to alleviate his pains, may possess the most valued talents and virtues, may be on the road to honor and fame, yet without health he is unhappy and miserable. Such a one looks with envy upon the poor laborer who, from morn till night, exerts all his strength to earn the allowance which is necessary to supply his little ones; for the health enjoyed by the laborer brings him more real happiness, without wealth, or learning, or fame, than all these bring the invalid, without health. If, then, there is a system of life which will procure the blessing of health, all should know of this system; and those who do realize the truth of such a system, should be zealous, not only to defend but to propagate the same, and to publish to all the good news. Those who understand the laws of hygiene, or the laws of health, as they look around and see in how many ways these laws are violated by nearly all their associates and friends, indeed, as they feel how difficult it is for any to resist the many inducements spread out in all directions to entrap the feet of the unwary, we say, as the true disciple of reform beholds the state of affairs in this world, he must feel a missionary spirit springing up within him; and he longs for the day when all shall possess the knowledge he possesses, and the principles he advocates. To spread these doctrines now becomes his aim; and he longs to warn the victims of appetite and passion of their danger; and he would, if possible, snatch them from the fire. How many are borne down with needless, nay, with hurtful burdens, and taxed with expenses they are not able to bear, merely from want of the light we possess. Many are being poisoned with drugs, and poisonous medicines, and narcotics, whose strength and virtue are needed to support their families. Life, health, and strength, are worse than wasted upon what are deemed necessary medicines, or perhaps pleasant stimulants. The more is our zeal stirred to action when we see men of learning, and talent, and influence, stand out, the unblushing advocates of tobacco, and alcohol, and poisonous drugs, and stimulants, such as tea, coffee, and unhealthy food. Reformers are compelled to battle for those principles of right which are often and most generally violated, hence, from necessity, they often reiterate the same principles: and this being so, their opponents, not always seeing the importance of reform, will endeavor to fasten upon them the various epithets that language affords; but righteous men can afford to be misrepresented, if any can. JOS. CLARKE.