LOVE IN THE HOUSEHOLD

Pacific Press Publishing Company · Oakland, California · Jun 25, 1894

FromSigns of the Times, Vol. 20, No. 33.

LOVE IN THE HOUSEHOLD.

WHATEVER else betide, whatever losses may come or separations intervene, let nothing prevent the perfect confidence and mutual love that should exist between the heads of the household. Let each one feel, believe, and know that storms may rage without, but cannot come between them; that other friends may be dear and cherished, but no friend can come between them; that fortune may fail to smile, but cannot shake the impregnable fortress of their love. In order to preserve this state of affection, there must be entire confidence in each other; nothing must come between them. They cannot always feel and think alike; this is as impossible as it is unnecessary, and it is better so. The indulgence they ask for themselves they can readily accord, and should delight to do so. Instead of considering what they have given, they should remember what they have received; instead of making comparisons and estimates as to gifts and services rendered, have hearts full of gratitude for the evidences of affection that gold cannot buy. We cannot compel love. It is a tender plant that requires the most gentle nurture.

"A word, a look, has crushed to earth Full many a budding flower, Which, had a smile but owned its birth, Would bless life's latest hour."

A household without love would be like the earth without the sun, a desert for want of a living spring to waken it into beauty, a night without day, a heaven without stars. Cherish love in the household as you would cherish its life; it is its life and glory, and the wealth of the Indies cannot atone for its loss. With it our homes are the nearest approach to heaven our earth affords. A household united in the service of God is a picture of heaven.—Domestic Journal.