THE habit of speaking in pleasant tones to the sensitive hearts within our care, is of the utmost importance. If we would have them learn to speak gently and kindly to all, we must teach by precept and example in their early years, while their minds are so elastic as to be led to pattern after the influence which surrounds them.
I will relate a little incident of my own experience. I was unusually busy one morning preparing for company to dinner. My little son of four years was amusing himself with his playthings about the room. He, too, seemed hard at work, building bridges, block houses, and churches. He was continually coming to me asking questions, and requiring assistance. After a little time I noticed he had left his play, and was under the table, sobbing as though his heart would break.
I said, “Georgie dear, what is the matter?” No reply.
When I repeated the question, the answer came between broken sobs, “You didn’t speak pleasant to me.”
“Well,” said I, “don’t cry; come and tell me about it.”
So he came to me; I took him upon my lap and asked him to tell me just what I had said. Years have passed since then and I have forgotten all but the impression it made. A few pleasant words, the tears kissed away, and he was comforted and happy, and soon at play again, but I had learned a lesson never to be forgotten.
He is now grown up, and I would no more think of speaking unpleasantly or unkindly to him than I would to company who might be visiting me. On the other hand, a rude, selfish, or unkind word never passes his lips. His attentions toward me are always most respectful, kind, and loving. If we would gain respect and esteem from our children, we must also speak to them in a kind and courteous manner. As we teach, so they will learn.—Sabbath Recorder.