p. 14 | The Boy’s Worst Enemy

Pacific Press Publishing Association · Mountain View, California · Sep 15, 1909

FromSigns of the Times, Vol. 36, No. 36.

The Boy’s Worst Enemy

“THE worst that can befall a boy,” says a contemporary, “is to have the liberty to remain out late at night.” This is too often a fatal privilege, because it is mostly during the night that all the mischief is planned and executed. The boys who are permitted the freedom of our public streets at all hours of the night are the boys who fill our work houses, and bring sorrow upon their relatives and friends. All parents should keep their boys off the streets and at home at night.

But are not the boys who work in shops and factories all day entitled to some recreation and amusement? — Most assuredly they are; and it is a poorly managed home that can not provide these. Music, singing, reading,— can not young people have these amusements at home? And what more does the street offer? Parents, look at it! Do not think that because the boys bring their earnings at the week-end, they are free to do as they please and go where they will. By no means. You are always supreme in the home, and God will hold you responsible for the conduct of your children as long as they live under your roof. It is simply outrageous to witness the actions of some youngsters on the public streets. And what of young girls? Many of them conduct themselves no better.—Detroit News Tribune.