Birmingham age-herald., 1895-06-02
SUNDAY READING.

One, perhaps of the greatest evils with which we have to contend Is a lack of unity of feeling and affection in family, and one also that, unfortunately, too of ten prevails. A looker-on for over two score years, and being possessed of keen powers of observation, have seen much of this unhappiness, almost invariably arising from the most insignificant causes-a want of forbearance and un selfishness in the, everyday course of life exacting too much similarity of mind and feeling. It is strange how very little concession we can make to others in unimportant things if they dlt- fer from us. An opinion is passed on the most triffing subject some one dissents, and then follows an argument which, as neither will "agree to differ, ends with angry feelings on both sides, sim ply because we want to make our own ground good and exercise no control over our unruly member, the tongue.
 Again, in our intercourse with those around us we rarely are careful always to maintain that true politeness which is only another name for much higher name-unseffiSl1neSs The sacrifice of perhaps favorite seat, or a pet habit only, or some such seeming trifie; but which would often very. greatly conduce to the comfort of those with whom we associate so intimately. @ N
 ndu the privilege or once kIOWlHB well one of those rare beings who found her life in promoting the happiness of those around her. She was, perhaps, in the eyes of the world, quiet, unobtru- sive person enough; but in her family she was spirit of light. An atmosphere of peace seemed to pervade when she was by. In any little dispute that arose between the children they all felt that she could settle 1t without either feeling that thy had been worsted. In any press af q lvrox we a able when others required 1t. And so it was in everythipg; and, I believe. the whole secret of her influence over others. and her power of conducting to their comfort lay in perfect forgetfulnesS of self which gave her the power of throw ing herself into the very thoughts and feelings of others while carefully bear ing in mind the relative claims each had upon her. Did we all bear In mind that, except when actual duty points another way the greatest virtue in social, life is to conciliate all with whom we come in contact, and consider them in every way before, Ourselves, we should find life never wanting in that interest of which so many complain; while by this abnega- ton of self our own daily upward course would be much smoother.
 It is a glorious sight 0he conspicuous absence of selfshness) to see two old people, who have weathered the storms
 
 gether. go hand in hand, lovingly and truthfully, down the gentle declivity of time, with no anger or jealousies or hatreds garnered up against each other, and looking with hope and joy to the everlasting youth of heaven. where they two shall be one forever. That Is true marriage--for it Is the marriage of spirit with spirit Their love is woven into a wool of gold that neither time nor eter- nity can sever.
 Spite and revenge are poor instruments as unchristian as they are morally degrading. No refined mind in- dulges in revengeful feelings. We should be above resenting an in- jury, but avoid the society of those who needlessly give offense.'
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 Whispering is often indulged in by the young, and my parting advice to all is never to whisper, either in the presence or absence of others. What you cannot say plainly do not say at all. and by never indulging in the practice you will never give way to it unconsciously in the presence of those who may think you are whispering of them.