Chapter 30—Family Companionship
Parents to Become Acquainted With Children—Some parents
do not understand their children and are not really acquainted with
them. There is often a great distance between parents and children. If
the parents would enter more fully into the feelings of their children
and draw out what is in their hearts, it would have a beneficial influence
upon them
The father and the mother should work together in full sympathy
with each other. They should make themselves companions to their
children
Parents should study the best and most successful manner of win-
ning the love and confidence of their children, that they may lead them
in the right path. They should reflect the sunshine of love upon the
household
Encouragement and Commendation—Young children love
companionship and can seldom enjoy themselves alone. They yearn
for sympathy and tenderness. That which they enjoy they think will
please mother also, and it is natural for them to go to her with their little
joys and sorrows. The mother should not wound their sensitive hearts
by treating with indifference matters that, though trifling to her, are of
great importance to them. Her sympathy and approval are precious.
An approving glance, a word of encouragement or commendation, will
be like sunshine in their hearts, often making the whole day happy
Parents to Be Child’s Confidants—Parents should encourage
their children to confide in them and unburden to them their heart
[191]
griefs, their little daily annoyances and trials
Kindly instruct them and bind them to your hearts. It is a critical
time for children. Influences will be thrown around them to wean them
1
Testimonies For The Church 1: 395
.
2
Manuscript 45, 1912
.
3
The Review and Herald, August 30, 1881
.
4
The Ministry of Healing, 388
.
5
Testimonies For The Church 1, 391
.
140