Martinsburg herald. [volume] (Martinsburg, W. Va.) 1881-1920, 1886-11-06
SELECTIONS.
SCHOOL INTERESTS.

EDITOR HERALD.-Every legitl-
mate calling, occupation or business
in life has it's success and draw
backs, its sunny side and its shady
side. This is particularly true of the
teacher. There is often much to
discourage and depress him in the
performance of the arduous duties
of his profession. He is like one
vending his weary way over an arid
desert with occasionally an oasis to
rest His weary limbs and refresh
himself. Yet when he can look
back upon years OF faithful service
in the cause, he may derive some
consideration from the fact that he
has at least done his duty. In the
consciousness and conviction cfhav-
ing done so, whatever may have
been his occasional inadvertant mis-
takes, he can peacefully lay aside
his pedagogic armor, and rest in the
assurance that he has been a bene-
factor to the rising generation, and
that he lives in the hearts and mem
cries of hundreds and perhaps thous-
ands of those who have been under
his instruction. and enjoyed his well
meant advice. With pleasure he
observes Their career, if honorable.
He is gratified to see numbers, after
leaving school, face the realities of
life courageously by dint of honesty
of purpose and practical applica-
ton of their scholarship, thus find
ing their way to honor and prosper
ity, and far outstripping their teach
er in financial success.
How pleasant it is to the teacher
to meet his former pupils, or if at a
distance, to hear of their success in
life. Nothing does my heart more
good than the friendly grasp of their
hand, the kindling of the eye and
the words of gratitude. OF the
thousands who in years past stood
to me in the relation of pupils, in
various sections of our country, and
especially in Martinsburg, not sim
Gle one whom | chance to meet or
hear from, has criticized the treat
ment and teaching received at my
hand; but many regret has been
expressed of lack of appreciation
Of the instruction and advice given.
" | deserved all the punishment |
got, and was entitled to more," has
been the candid admission of many.
1t the last issue of the Statesman
a voice comes from far off California
that not only stirred up pleasant
memories of days gone by, but at.
forded me much pleasure by its kind
reference to me, though perhaps
rather fulsome in my praise and dis
praise Of himself. He signs himself
"W. S. H." but that does not con
ceal from me the name of the pupil
of 10 years ago, brimful of vitality
but true as steel and sharp as a
tack" Tricks there were, no doubt
but no prevarication when called to
account. Integrity, truthfulDess and
honor we're characteristic of No. 30
all the time-virtues that have made
the man. Oh! yes, well do / re
member the boys and girls of Is
years ago. 1t was not long after
the close of the war, and the schools
were in crude state. One would
suppose that under these circum
stances the youth were so democrat
lied as to render discipline difficult
But strange as 1t may seem, / found
less difficulty in that direction than
OF later years. Then the teacher
had more cooperation or the part OF
patrons than now. People become
more sensitive every year as to any