MAKING FRIENDS by Mrs. C. H. Goodwin

Pacific Press Publishing Company · OAKLAND, CALIFORNIA · Sep 6, 1899

FromSigns of the Times, Vol. 25, No. 36.

MAKING FRIENDS.

By Mrs. C. H. Goodwin

UPON entering a new circle of associations, youth, and often elderly persons, feel such a sense of loneliness and utter forsakenness. Often have I felt this strange, lonely feeling; once especially I remember; after being in the Mission School in Oakland, and entering the College at Healdsburg, there were many strange faces, and I felt I knew so little of college life. I was half afraid to speak, or be spoken to. We Mission girls and others arrived several days before school opened, and most of the students seemed to enjoy themselves in their duties and social talks with one another, but I felt so awkward and lonely. O, yes, all were pleasant and kind, but I was afraid to say, "Good morning," or make many advances unless first approached or spoken to. Yet I am thankful to say that before the term closed I was as much at home there as at any place.

What brought the change? In the opening exercises the president read the first clause of Prov. 18:24. The Spirit of God sent the words home to me. I began to greet the students with a pleasant word, and soon they all seemed so friendly.

I found that Prov. 18:24, is a good rule in the church, in the neighborhood, and among all classes. Why?—Because it is God's way of gaining friends. I feel that if my experience is of any value to another soul I'd like to pass it on.

MRS. C. H. GOODWIN.