THE INFLUENCE OF THE MOTHER.
By Mrs. M. V. Warren
FROM the earliest period of its existence through the whole course of life the mother wields an influence upon her child. Do not understand me to mean that the father has no influence; but I do believe that the mother has a far greater and more lasting one, at least in a great majority of cases. She it is who has the entire charge of the babies from morning until night; she it is who is always ready to listen to the childish prattle and the little troubles. It is the mother who kisses away the tears, who mends the broken toys. And, oh, how she should improve the golden opportunities thus given her to make impressions upon the tender child nature that will tell in all the after life of her dear ones! The mother who has a heart full of sympathy, hands ever ready to assist the childish wants, a little time now and then to indulge in a game, is the mother who has a place in the hearts of her children that can never be supplanted by another. Dear mothers, be a companion to your children, not a slave to them. Enter into their joys and sorrows with all the zest of motherhood. Keep their confidence; make them to know that you are their very best friend, to whom they can come at all times and under all circumstances. Study the nature and disposition of your child from the very beginning of its life; know yourself, and govern and be governed accordingly. Above all, take for your pattern the dear Saviour; study his life and imitate his character. Let the Christ life shine forth in your own life, and your holy example will be imparted to your children, and they will follow you as you follow Christ.—Mrs. M. V. Warren, in N. Y. Voice.