Thoughts for Teachers by A. M. H.

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Dec 12, 1907

Thoughts for Teachers

By A. M. H.

Of the methods of the teacher who made the most impression on my life I remember but little. I only remember that the atmosphere of the school was more nearly what a church-school should be than one usually finds.

He must have been a true Christian — an optimistic one — for we all seemed to feel on our honor as to behavior and lessons. We knew that he expected only good of us. He had a kind word for, and a personal interest in, even the most unruly, and such soon forgot to live up to the reputation of “the worst boy in school.”

He gave a little friendly talk the first morning, and said there would be only one rule—obey. I see more and more in that word, now. It was the test in the garden of Eden. Each morning a motto or quotation—character-building and uplifting—was on the board, sometimes Scripture texts. These we were encouraged to copy, and also to suggest others ourselves. We could repeat these after our names were called in roll.

How many teachers have met the pupil who says, “I know, but I can’t tell it”? — a condition which will handicap him for life unless corrected. Special attention should be paid that one to see that in each recitation the thoughts are grasped so that in the review they can be presented in clear-cut sentences. Many, even grown persons, read, but do not see the thought expressed. Of course such reading brings no development of mind. How necessary is accuracy!

“Our thoughts are odors, and we can not seal them So close with actions, but they will creep out, And sensitive souls will feel and know them To be sweet or vile, beyond a doubt.”

The grandest and most responsible work in the world is that which God has committed to mothers and teachers — training his children for service.

A. M. H.