p. 147 | The Power of Kindness

Publishing Committee · Battle Creek, Mich. · Mar 26, 1861

The Power of Kindness.

The following anecdote was narrated at a meeting lately held in behalf of education:

A certain British school was remarkable for the rough and savage disposition of the boys who composed it. In consequence it had obtained the unenviable designation of "The Bull-dog School." The teacher, under whose supervision this state of things existed, and who seemed quite unable to remedy it, was accordingly dismissed. His successor, aware of these circumstances, and earnestly desiring the welfare of his charge, began by inquiring what mode or principle of action would be most likely to secure it. After much thought he concluded that kindness was the key to the boys' hearts, and observantly waited for some favorable opportunity to try its work. Such an occasion soon occurred. One of the boys became dangerously ill. The teacher called upon him. This act was altogether without a precedent; a report was soon circulated, and a good impression was suddenly made. When the school met, the teacher informed the boys about their companion, and inquired if two would agree to call every day, and ascertain the state of his health. The idea was novel. Like new things, it was cheerfully received, and the boys acted regularly upon it. Their school-fellow had been ordered to have some wine. His parents were very poor, and had not the means for complying with this order. The teacher became aware of the fact. He then, after telling the circumstances to his scholars, asked if they could at all help in this matter. One and another immediately cried out, "I will give a penny," "I will give a farthing," and so on according to their resources. All countenances were bright with joy. A collection was made. The requisite sum, minus sixpence, was obtained.

The master inquired if all had been given they could spare. "Yes." It was sad to be so near the attainment of their object, and yet after all, disappointed. Silence prevailed. At last one little fellow said, "Won't you give the sixpence teacher?" "Certainly; I only waited for you to ask me," was the reply. The wants of their school-fellow were met; his health was in due time restored. But the influence of this act of kindness did not cease with the occasion. The boys had felt the luxury of doing good. The school from that time became quite reformed; a proof how correctly they judge and act, who not only train the intellect, but also the hearts of the young. No principle is so powerful for good in the education of mind, as that of intelligent kindness—the love which, while it does not overlook wrong-doing, shows that it is not quenched by it—and that furnishes a constant and powerful impulse to goodness.