Thoughtfulness for Others
WE were walking from church in the rear of two young ladies. A piece of brush partly obstructed the sidewalk. They turned and passed it. One of them stopped, took the obstruction and threw it aside. She did it naturally, without an officious air, and as if it were hers to do it, as a matter of course. It was an incident. It was a small thing. Nothing special was done or intended. Yet the action signified something. It showed that, by instinct or training, this particular person was careful, painstaking, and thoughtful of the convenience and comfort of those who were about to follow, more than her companion was. It was a good sign. It indicated a sympathetic nature, a helpful soul, a wish to prevent harm, a purpose to serve the good of others. It indicated a good disposition, a kindly sentiment, and an unselfish will. To be thoughtful for others is the essence of all good manners, if not of all good morals, and of religion itself.—Pacific.