Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students - Ellen G. White

gained by close confinement in the schoolroom at
an early age, when neither the mind nor the body is
strong enough to endure the strain.
At home and in the school, by precept and
example, the children and youth should be taught
to be truthful, unselfish, industrious. They should
not be allowed to spend their time in idleness; their
hands should not be folded in inaction. Parents and
teachers should work for the accomplishment of
this object--the development of all the powers, and
the formation of right character. But when parents
realize their responsibilities, there will be far less
left for the teachers to do.
Heaven is interested in this work in behalf of
the young. The parents and teachers who by wise
instruction, in a calm, decided manner, accustom
children to think of and care for others, will help
them to overcome their selfishness and will close
the door against many temptations. Angels of God
will co-operate with these faithful instructors.
Angels are not commissioned to do this work
themselves; but they will give strength and
211