[Illustration: Malinda A. Hall.]
[Illustration: Solomon H. Buchanan.]
[Illustration: Samuel A. Folsom.]
[Illustration: CLOSING DAY, 1912. REV. DR. BAIRD AT LEFT ON THE PORCH.]
The young minister needs this knowledge more than many others, and a
great deal more than is generally appreciated, to enable him to give
intelligent counsel to his people, when they have need to make repairs
or build new churches and parsonages.
As these higher and special lines of industrial instruction are
perfected and emphasized, and the facilities for self-help both during
term time and vacation are gradually increased, the efficiency and
patronage of the academy will continue to increase with the progress of
the years.
BURDENS AND FRIENDS
The deficit in the running expenses on June 30, 1911, the last day
included in the annual report of that year was $1,693.95. This was the
largest deficit at the end of any previous month, and was a big one with
which to commence the improvement work of our last year. It was due to
the fact that the completion of Elliott Hall with good materials and
workmanship, including furniture, cost nearly $1,500 more than was
expected, and the appropriation made for it.
We were called upon to experience some serious losses and bear, for
considerable periods of time unusually great and heavy burdens. The
burden twice became so great, indeed, as to awaken the fear that another
straw would break the camel's back. Happily the needed relief came in
time to avert that unhappy experience, or check the aggressive onward
progress of the improvement work.
When the burden became large and a matter of personal anxiety, it also
became the measure of the valuable and loyal co-operation of the new
friends who came to our assistance, in addition to our Board of
Missions for Freedmen; which is the first and final resort for the
resources that are necessary to successfully administer, and gradually
develop the work of this institution.
We deem it appropriate to gratefully record the names of those who have
most signally aided us in the management of the finances, so as to keep
them locally on a cash basis, namely, the Security State bank of
Rockwell City, Ia.; 1st National bank of Valliant; and in succession the
following dealers in Valliant: O'Bannon & Son; A. J. Whitfield and
Planters Trading Co.
Hon. T. P. Gore, United States Senator from Oklahoma, (blind), has
favored this institution by sending for its library more than a dozen
valuable volumes, among which are 2 Year Books of the Department of
Agriculture; 2 Handbooks,--I & II,--of the American Indians; Report of
the Commissioner on Education for 1911, in two volumes; Report on
Industrial Education; Manual of the United States Senate; Directory of
Congress, and several other smaller volumes.
SPECIAL ADDRESSES
During our last term the institution was favored with encouraging and
instructive addresses from the following distinguished visitors: Rev.
Duncan McRuer of Pauls Valley, Moderator of the Synod of Oklahoma; Rev.
E. B. Teis of Anadarko, Pastoral Evangelist for the Presbytery of El
Reno; Rev. Phil C. Baird D. D., Pastor of the First Presbyterian church
of Oklahoma City; and by Rev. Wiley Homer, Rev. William Butler, Rev. W.
J. Starks and Rev. T. K. Bridges, pastors of local churches, and Rev. M.
L. Bethel, Oklahoma City.
XXIX
BUILDING THE TEMPLE
AN EXERCISE FOR CHILDREN'S DAY, ILLUSTRATED BY A TEMPLE AND AN ARCH.
"I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in the
truth."--John
"Giving all diligence add to your faith, virtue; and to virtue,
knowledge; and to knowledge, temperance; and to temperance,
patience; and to patience, godliness; and to godliness, brotherly
kindness; and to brotherly kindness, charity. He that lacketh these
things is blind."--Peter.
It was the good fortune of the author to be called to serve as chorister
and superintendent of rural Sunday schools, and leader of the choir of
the church, in his early youth. At the beginning of his ministry, he
discovered the relative importance of this work among the young, by
reading the observation of the sainted Samuel Miller to the effect; if
he could repeat the period of his ministry, he would give ten times more
time and attention to the work among the children. This importance was
very acceptably emphasized during the eighties, by the enthusiasm of
Rev. James A. Wooden, D. D., of our Sunday school Board, and the
appointment of a Sabbath in June, to be annually observed as Children's
Day.
One of the most prominent features of our ministry has been, a
persistently active participation in the work among the children and
young people. Other engagements have not been permitted to interfere
with attendance at Sunday school and Endeavor meetings, or an
appointment to meet the children at any of the regular times of
rehearsal of songs and exercises for Easter, Christmas, Children's Day
and other anniversaries. All the young people were encouraged to
participate in the effort to make these rallying days, occasions of
special instruction and delight. A number of pretty, and sometimes
elaborate, designs were devised to add their illuminating effect to the
exercises. Two of these designs, a temple and an arch, both having for
their object, a visible representation of the divinely appointed
elements of a good character, according to the apostle Peter, and
animating power of the indwelling spirit, manifested by a conscientious
observance of the command to remember the Sabbath, have been deemed
worthy of an illustration in this volume, that those who participated in
them, and others, may be able to reproduce them for the instruction and
delight of others.
Exercises, that consist of passages from the Scriptures, are more
valuable than others to the children, when committed to memory, and they
learn them very readily, when an immediate use is to be made of them at
a public service. The passages suggested for use in these exercises
include many of the most important ones in the Bible, and as they
practice, in the presence of each other, all become more or less
familiar with every one of them. The superintendent or leader is
expected to arrange the length and number of the exercises, to suit the
number and ages of those available to participate in them. A single
verse may be best for the child: but a glance over the additional
passages may be very helpful to the pastor or other person, delivering a
short address at the close of the children's exercises.
A very pleasing feature of these designs is the fact, they are
constructed by the children as one after the other, or two together,
carry their part to the platform and render their exercise. One or two
are appointed to serve as Master-builders to receive the stones or
tablets, when delivered, and place them in their proper position.
A good character is an enduring monument. A good name is rather to be
chosen than great riches.
WALKING IN THE TRUTH
[Illustration: ]
AN ENDURING TEMPLE.--A temple for time and eternity, showing the
divinely appointed elements of a good character (2 Peter 1:5-8), their
sure foundations; the person and work of our Lord Jesus and the inspired
Word of God; and their crowning bond, the Sabbath.
AN EXERCISE FOR CHILDREN'S DAY
(The two master builders standing together)
Master Builder. Dear friends: The Bible tells us that all are builders.
That some are wise and others are foolish. That some are building on the
sand, without any protection against the storms and floods, that will
surely cause their fall. That some are building with wood, hay or
stubble; or with gold, silver and precious stones, without any
protection against the day, when the fire will consume these perishable
materials. That others, however are building safely and securely, with
divinely appointed materials, on the Rock of Ages and the unchanging,
impregnable Word of God. That the indwelling Spirit, commonly called the
Comforter, is the occupant, strength and life of their temple; and their
conscientious observance of the Sabbath, is to them the pledge of Divine
favor and the visible sign of their sure protection.
Assistant Builder. All of you no doubt are familiar with the words of
the poet, Longfellow:
"All are architects of fate
Building on the walls of time;
Some with massive deeds and great,
Others with the ornaments of rhyme.
For the structures that we raise
God's Word is with materials filled;
And our todays and yesterdays
Reveal the materials with which we build."
"We have planned today to build
A temple--on earth, a heaven;
A temple on rocks so solid,
And with materials divinely given,
That all who hear the Master's call
To service and an endless life,
May of this be sure, whatever befall
They have builded for time aright."
Life is what we make it out of what God puts within our reach, and every
act is a foundation stone for the next one. Walking in the truth, adding
to our faith and building a temple all mean advancing one step or stone
at a time.
Master Builder. The white stone referred to in Revelation was an emblem
of pardon and a badge of friendship.
The stone ordinarily is an emblem of solidity and enduring strength. In
this sense it is an emblem of an eternal truth, or principle. When Peter
confessed, "Thou art the Christ," Jesus said in regard to his
confession, "Thou art Peter, and on this rock" or fundamental truth, "I
am Christ," "I will build my church; and the gates of hell (hades) shall
not prevail against it."
David tells us "The Lord set his feet upon a rock." He calls the Lord a
rock, a fortress and a high tower; and entreats the Lord to "lead him to
the rock that is higher than I." Peter speaks of Jesus as a living
stone, and of believers as lively stones that form a spiritual house, an
holy priesthood.
We are now ready for the foundation.
"And as we build, let each one pray,
That we may build aright;
That all we do on earth may be
Well pleasing in God's sight."
Chorus. "We're building up the temple,
Building up the temple
Building up the temple of the Lord."
Bearer: We bring the corner stone on which our temple rests.
Master Builder: This stone represents our Lord Jesus, the sure
foundation. Let us hear of this stone, the Rock of Ages, what the Bible
may tell.
Bearer: "Behold I lay in Zion a chief corner stone, elect, precious; and
he that believeth on him shall not be confounded. Unto you therefore
which believe, he is precious; but unto them which be disobedient, the
stone which the builders rejected, the same is made the head of the
corner. Other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is
Jesus Christ."
He said of himself, I am the light of the world. I am the resurrection
and the life: he that believeth in me though he were dead, yet shall he
live. And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Without
me ye can do nothing. My grace is sufficient for thee.
Paul said of him, "We preach Christ crucified, unto the Jews a
stumbling-block and unto the Greeks foolishness; but unto them which are
called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of
God."
Asst. Bearer: Peter said: "Be it known unto you all, and to all the
people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom ye
crucified, whom God raised from the dead, even by him doth this man
stand before you whole. This is the stone which was set at nought by you
builders--the Jews--which is become the head of the corner. Neither is
there salvation in any other; for there is none other name under heaven,
given among men whereby we must be saved."
Bearer: "We bring another stone for the foundation."
M. B. "This stone represents the Word of God that endureth forever. Let
us hear of this stone what the Bible may tell."
Bearer: "Thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make
thee wise unto salvation through faith, which is in Christ Jesus.
"All scripture is given by inspiration of God and is profitable for
doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:
That the man of God may be perfect; thoroughly furnished unto all good
works.
"The law of the Lord is perfect; converting the soul; the testimony of
the Lord is sure, making wise the simple. The statutes of the Lord are
right, rejoicing the heart; the commandment of the Lord is pure,
enlightening the eyes. The fear of the Lord is clean, enduring forever;
the judgments of the Lord are true and righteous altogether."
Asst. Bearer. "Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not
pass away."
"Whosoever shall be ashamed of me and my words, of him shall the Son of
Man be ashamed when he shall come in his own glory, and in the glory of
the Father and of the holy angels."
"Ye are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus
Christ himself being the chief corner stone; in whom all the building
fitly framed together groweth unto a holy temple in the Lord, for a
habitation of God through the Spirit." See John 1. 4,14.
M. B. The two fold foundation of our glorious temple has now been laid.
It consists of the Rock of Ages and the Word of God that endureth
forever. We are now ready for those good materials for the walls of the
temple that are better than wood, hay or stubble, gold, silver or
precious stones.
FAITH. Bearer: We bring the stone that represents Faith.
Master Builder: Faith is a goodly stone, and it fits right well. Let us
hear of Faith what the Bible may tell.
(Adjust and repeat for the other stones.)
Bearer: By grace are ye saved through Faith; and that not of yourselves;
it is the gift of God.
God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that
whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life; and he that
believeth not the Son shall not see life.
Asst. Bearer: Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for
righteousness. Know ye therefore that they which are of faith, the same
are the children of Abraham. They which be of faith are blessed with
faithful Abraham. He that is faithful in that which is least is
faithful. Be thou faithful unto death and I will give thee a crown of
life. See also Rom. 10:8-10.
VIRTUE--COURAGE. B: Whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are
honest, whatsoever things are just; whatsoever things are pure,
whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if
there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.
Thou therefore my son, Timothy, be strong in the grace that is in Christ
Jesus and endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ.
Asst. B: The Lord said unto Joshua, "Be strong and of a good courage:
that thou mayest observe to do according to all the law, which Moses, my
servant commanded thee; that thou mayest prosper whithersoever thou
goest. This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou
shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do
according to all that is written therein; for then thou shalt make thy
way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success." See also Eph.
6:10-17.
KNOWLEDGE. B: The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge. This
is life eternal, that they might know thee, the only true God, and Jesus
Christ, whom Thou hast sent.
Know ye not that ye are the temple of God and that the spirit of God
dwelleth in you? If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God
destroy: for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are. See Prov.
4:7-8; 3:16-17
TEMPERANCE. Abstain from all appearance of evil. If meat make my brother
to offend I will eat no meat while the world standeth. The fruit of the
spirit is love, joy, peace, long suffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,
meekness, temperance; against such there is no law. And 2 Pet. 1:5-6.
PATIENCE. In your patience possess ye your souls. Let us run with
patience the race that is set before us; looking unto Jesus, the author
and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him
endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right
hand of the throne of God.
GODLINESS. "Great is the mystery of Godliness: God manifest in the
flesh, believed on in the world and received up into glory. Godliness
with contentment is great gain. Godliness is profitable unto all things,
having promise of the life that now is and of that which is to come.
Fear God and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man."
KINDNESS. "Be ye kind one to another, tender hearted, forgiving one
another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you. Love ye your
enemies, and do good; lend hoping for nothing again; and your reward
shall be great, and ye shall be the children of the Highest: for he is
kind unto the unthankful and to the evil."
CHARITY. "Though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I
give my body to be burned and have not charity, it profiteth me nothing.
Charity suffereth long and is kind. Charity envieth not; beareth all
things, believeth all things, endureth all things. And now abideth
faith, hope and charity, these three, but the greatest of these is
charity." Luke 10:27. I John 3:17.
All repeat 2 Pet. 1:5-8, and review the foundations.
THE SABBATH. "The Sabbath was made for man and not man for the Sabbath:
therefore the Son of Man is Lord also of the Sabbath, and the apostle
John calls it the Lord's day."
"From the beginning of the world to the resurrection of Christ, God
appointed the seventh day of the week to be the weekly Sabbath; and the
first day of the week ever since to continue to the end of the world,
which is the Christian Sabbath."
"And the Lord spake unto Moses saying, verily my Sabbaths ye shall keep,
for it is a sign between me and you throughout your generations; that ye
may know that I am the Lord that doth sanctify you. It is a sign between
me and the children of Israel for ever."
Isaiah refers to the Sabbath as a pledge of divine favor. "If thou call
the Sabbath a delight, the holy of the Lord and shalt honor it, not
doing thine own ways; I will cause thee to ride upon the high places of
the earth and feed thee with the heritage of Jacob thy father."
Ezekiel, a prophet of the captivity, older than Daniel and faithful even
unto death, refers four times to the pollution of the Sabbath as one of
the principal causes of the captivity. "The word of the Lord came unto
me, saying, I gave them my Sabbaths to be a sign between me and them,
that they might know that I am the Lord that sanctify them. But the
house of Israel walked not in my statutes, and my Sabbaths they greatly
profaned. Then I said I would greatly pour out my fury upon them to
consume them and scatter them among the heathen."
Abraham Lincoln very truly observed, "As we keep or break the Sabbath
day, we nobly save or meanly lose the last best hope by which man
rises."
Washington and Lincoln, apart from what they did, were great men. The
divine element of a God given character belonged to each. Goodness is
the basis of greatness, and greatness is character; the ability and
willingness to serve.
All unite in repeating the fourth commandment.
THE DESIGN. It can be ornamented with a gilt cross and decorated with
evergreen festoons pendant over the ends. Bouquets of the same color can
be laid at the corresponding angles.
THE CROSS. "God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our
Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto
the world."--Paul.
The children bringing bouquets can be supplied with short exercises like
the following.
I bring these flowers: Solomon in all his glory was not
arrayed like one of these.
These beautiful flowers I bring,
A grateful offering to my king.
I bring these pretty flowers,
A fragrant relic of Eden's bowers.
I bring these roses fair
To Him who hears my evening prayer.
I bring to him this pretty rose,
Who died and from the dead arose,
To save us all from all our foes.
These flowers I bring to him of whom it was said,
"I am the rose of Sharon and the lily of the valleys."
"By their fruits ye shall know them." This is the present
test of character; of men, their teachings and institutions.
Fruit, FRUIT, MORE FRUIT.
Every branch that beareth not
FRUIT
He taketh away; every branch that beareth
FRUIT
He purgeth it, that it may bring forth
MORE FRUIT
"In the beauty of the lilies Christ was born across the sea.
With a glory in his bosom that transfigures you and me;
As He died to make men holy, let us die to make men free,
While God is marching on."
See also Math. 7:30; John 15:5-8, 14, 15.
Repeat in unison the call of Jesus for the children:
"Suffer little children to come unto me and forbid them not
for of such is the kingdom of heaven."
OPPORTUNITY FOR DECISION
Daniel in his youth, purposed in his heart, not to defile himself by
eating the king's meat or the wine which he drank. Joshua expressed his
decision to all Israel, saying, "As for me and my house, we will serve
the Lord."
Choose ye this day whom ye will serve? While the congregation is
standing and singing an appropriate, familiar hymn, encourage every
undecided person present, to accept Jesus as their savior; and to
indicate with the uplifted hand, their decision to live a Christian
life.
Provide testaments or bibles for those needing them.
BUILDING DAY BY DAY
"We are building in sorrow and building in joy
A temple the world cannot see.
But we know it will stand, if we found it on a rock,
Through the ages of eternity.
Cho. We are building day by day
As the moments glide away,
Our temple which the world may not see.
Every victory won by grace
Will be sure to find a place
In our building for eternity.
"Every deed forms a part in this building of ours,
That is done in the name of the Lord;
For the love that we show
And the kindness we bestow
He has promised us a bright reward.
Then be watchful and wise
Let the temple we rear
Be one that no tempest can shock;
For the Master has said
And He taught us in His word
We must build upon the solid rock."
--H. E. Blair
GROWING UP FOR JESUS
"Growing up for Jesus, we are truly blest,
In His smile is welcome, in His arms our rest,
In His truth our treasure, in His word our rule,
Growing up for Jesus, in our Sunday School.
Growing up for Jesus, till in Him complete,
Growing up for Jesus, oh! His work is sweet;
In His truth our treasure, in His word our rule,
Growing up for Jesus, in our Sunday School.
"Not too young to love Him, little hearts beat true,
Not too young to serve Him, as the dew drops do.
Not too young to praise Him, singing as we come,
Not too young to answer, when He calls us home.
Growing up for Jesus, learning day by day,
How to follow onward in the narrow way;
Seeking holy treasure, finding precious truth,
Growing up for Jesus in our happy youth."
--Pres. Board Publication.
OUR HAPPY LAND
A Favorite Children's Chorus.
Land of children, birds and flowers,
What a happy land is ours!
Here the gladdest bells are rung,
Here the sweetest songs are sung.
With Thy banner o'er us,
Join we all in chorus,
Land of children, birds and flowers
What a happy land is ours.
Let us keep it so we pray,
Drive the clouds of sin away;
Father by Thy love divine
Make us, keep us ever Thine.
With Thy banner o'er us, etc.
Keep us Lord from day to day
In the straight and narrow way.
May it be our chief delight,
To walk upright in Thy sight;
With Thy banner o'er us, etc.
What a happy land
What a happy land is ours,
Here the gladdest bells are rung,
Here the sweetest songs are sung;
Freedom's banner o'er us,
Join we all in chorus,
Land of children, birds and flowers,
What a happy land is ours.
THE ARCH
The arch, which appears on another page, illustrates in a very striking
manner the mutual dependence of all the stones, representing the
divinely appointed elements of character, on their crown, the keystone,
which represents the Sabbath or fourth commandment, the connecting link
between the first and second tables of the law and the visible bond of
every man and nation to his Creator.
When the keystone has been placed in position the arch will sustain
considerable weight, but if it be removed nearly all of the other stones
tumble to the floor in a confused heap. Those who do not remember the
Sabbath to keep it holy unto the Lord, may manifest some of these
divinely appointed elements of character, but every one who
conscientiously observes the Sabbath as a day for public worship,
reading and teaching the Word of God, endeavors to develop all of them.
The indwelling spirit is dependent on an intelligent knowledge of the
Word, and the strengthening influence of the Sabbath is usually
according to the good use that is made of it.
EXPLANATORY
A couple of cracker boxes inverted serve for the two foundation
stones. The parts of the temple consist of frames made of thin
strips, about five inches wide. Each stone is about three inches
shorter and one and one-half inches narrower than the one below it,
and it rests on supporting strips inserted in the top of the lower
one. All can be set aside in the lower one when they are inverted.
All are covered with white printing paper and the letters are
fastened with little tacks.
The large letters are 2-1/2x1-1/4 and the small ones 1-1/2x7-8
inches. A bright red color is essential in order to produce the
nicest effect. They can be cut very speedily and uniformly if the
cardboard is first ruled with a pen, into squares the size of the
letters, and then ruled with a pencil one-fourth of an inch distant
from the ink rulings.
The arch is four feet wide at the base. The inner circle is
described with a radius of two and the outer one of three feet. The
curved edges of each are cut with a scroll saw. Strips of orange
boxes or sheets of card board, one foot long, are used to nail on
their straight edges. All are covered with cheese cloth or muslin
and the letters are placed on a curved line. The arch and temple can
both be built on a smaller scale with box board. The lifting of the
keystone of the arch, when first inserted is a very interesting
performance.
REFERENCES
TEMPLE: 1 Cor. 3:16-17; Math. 7:24-27; Luke 6:47-49; 1 Cor. 3:12-15;
James 1:22-24; Rev. 2:17; Ps. 18:2; 31:2-3; 71:35; 40:2; 61:2; 62:2.
JESUS. Isa. 28:16; 1 Peter 2:6; Math. 16:15-18; John 1:1-2-14; Dan.
2:34-35; 1 Cor. 8:11; Math 21:42-44; Acts 4:10-12; 1 Peter 2:4-6.
WORD. 2 Tim. 3:16-17; 1 Peter 1:20-21; Ps. 19:7,10; Heb. 4:12; Ps.
119:105,130; Isa. 40:8; Math. 24:35; Mark 13:31; Luke 9:26; Eph.
2:19-22.
FAITH. John 3:16, 36; Heb. 11:1-3; Eph. 2:4-8; Acts 16:31; Heb.
11:23-26; Mark 11:22-23; Gal. 3:6-9; Luke 16:10.
VIRTUE. Phil. 4:8; Josh. 1:6-9; 2 Tim 2:1-3; 1 John 2:13-14.
KNOWLEDGE. John 17:3; 1 Cor. 3:16-17; Prov. 1:7; Isa. 11:1-2, 33, 6;
Prov. 4:7-8; 3:16-17.
TEMPERANCE. Gal. 5:22-24; 1 Cor. 8:13; 2 Peter 1:5-6; Gen. 2:16-17; Dan.
1:8; Thess. 5:22.
PATIENCE. Luke 21:19; James 5:11; Heb. 10:35-36; 12:1-2.
GODLINESS. 1 Tim. 4:8; 6:6-7; 3:16; Ec. 12:13-14.
KINDNESS. Eph. 4:32; Luke 6:35; Ps. 103:2-4.
CHARITY. 1 Cor. 13:4-8; 13:1-3; 2 Peter 1:5-8.
SABBATH. Ex. 20:8-11; Mark 2:27-28; Ex. 31:13-17; Isa. 58:13-14; Ezek.
20:13, 16, 20, 24; Luke 4:16:18; Rev. 1:10.
XXX
MAXIMS AND SUGGESTIONS
RELATING TO THE DEVELOPMENT OF A GOOD CHARACTER AND THE ACHIEVEMENT OF
GOOD SUCCESS--NUGGETS FROM SHORT TALKS TO THE STUDENTS ON FRIDAY
EVENINGS.
"Precept upon precept, line upon line, here a little and there a
little." Proverbs.
Unstable as water thou shalt not excel.
Jacob.
Be gentle in manner, firm in principle, always conciliatory.
Go forward; and if difficulties increase, go forward more earnestly.
In essentials, unity; in non-essentials, liberty; in all things,
charity. Augustine.
Find a way or make one, is excellent; but sometimes it needs to
read, Find employment or make it.
Whatever cannot be avoided must be endured. Endure hard things
bravely.
Patience and Perseverance will perform great wonders.
Early to bed and early to rise will make a man healthy, wealthy and
wise. Ben Franklin.
Whoever wins man's highest stature here below must grow, and never
cease to grow--for when growth ceases, death begins. Alice Carey.
"There is so much bad in the best of us,
And so much good in the worst of us;
It is hardly fair for any of us,
To speak ill of the rest of us."
If thou wouldst know the secret of a happy life, rise in the morn,
with armor clasped about thee, for the day's long strife. "Thy duty
do."
The very angels then will stoop, when the night brings rest, to
cradle thee in heavenly arms because thou didst thy best. Jennings.
Bear and forbear are two good bears to have in every home, in order
to keep peace in the family. Grin and bear it, is another good one.
Impatience, scolding and fault-finding are three black bears, that
make every one feel badly and look ugly. Don't harbor them.
BIBLE PRECEPTS. Faithful is the Bible word for success.
He that is faithful, is faithful in that which is least.
Owe no man anything. Render to all their dues.
Be not wise in your own conceits. A wise son maketh a glad father;
but a foolish son is the heaviness of his mother.
Seek ye first the kingdom of God and all these things shall be added
unto you.
Wisdom is the principal thing, therefore get wisdom. Her ways are
ways of pleasantness and all her paths are peace.
Honor the Lord with thy substance and with the first-fruits of all
thine increase; so shall thy barns be filled with plenty.
So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto
wisdom. Let the beauty of the Lord our God be upon us, and establish
thou the work of our hands. Moses.
The hand of the diligent maketh rich. The hand of the diligent shall
bear rule.
Be not slothful in business. A man diligent in his business shall
stand before kings; he shall not stand before mean men.
Anger resteth in the bosom of fools. Make no friendship with an
angry man, lest thou learn his ways: Let not the sun go down upon
thy wrath. Be patient; and not a brawler or striker.
SPIRITUAL POWER. Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that
there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith
the Lord of hosts, if I will not open the windows of heaven, and
pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to
receive it.
HOW SOME MEN ACHIEVED GREATNESS
Abraham believed God and was promptly obedient to His divine call. "The
Lord made Abraham rich" and the "Father of the Faithful."
"The Lord was with Joseph," the innocent slave in prison. He led him
from the prison to a throne and made him a successful ruler in Egypt.
Daniel the youthful, God-fearing captive at Babylon, "sought the Lord by
prayer, supplication and fasting." "The Lord prospered him," gave him
favor with princes and made him the greatest statesman of his age.
Job was a "perfect and upright man, one that feared God." Satan said of
him, "Doth Job fear God for nought?" Satan then deprived him of his
family, property and health. Job still maintained his integrity, saying,
"The Lord gave and the Lord hath taken away." The Lord then gave Job
twice as much as he had before; so that the latter end of Job was more
blessed than his beginning.
When the Lord said to Moses, "Come now, I will send thee unto Pharaoh,
that thou mayest bring forth my people out of Egypt;" he hesitated,
saying, "Who am I?" "They will not believe me;" and "I am not eloquent."
But when he obeyed the call and went, the Lord went with him, the people
believed, the army of Pharaoh was overthrown; and Moses became the first
emancipator, a great leader of men and the greatest lawgiver in the
history of the world.
OAK HILL BE'S
Be Honorable. Never do that which will cause you afterwards to feel
ashamed.
Be Honest. Never deceive or take that which belongs to another.
Be True. Stand firmly for the truth and be faithful, though you stand or
work alone.
Be Pure. Shun the impure and abhor whatever will corrupt good morals.
Be Polite. Help the weak and never by word or act offend another.
Be Prompt. If you have done badly, hasten with your apology before you
are called to account.
Be Thoughtful. Learn how to exercise that forethought that anticipates
every future need at the beginning of an undertaking.
Self Control. Self control means self discipline. Self discipline means
that I must be willing to:
Be, what I know I ought to be;
Say, what I know I ought to say;
Do, what I know I ought to do;
Go, where I know I ought to go;
Do, with my might what my hands find to do; and be firmly decided, not
to do anything I know I ought not to do. It is the ability to control
one's thoughts and energies by rule, so as to act prudently, and never
impulsively or impatiently.
All make mistakes, some more than others. "To err is human." He succeeds
best who makes the fewest mistakes; and most quickly corrects them, when
discovered.
"I am not bound to win, but I am bound to be true.
"I am not bound to succeed, but I am bound to live up to what light I
have.
"I must stand with anybody who stands right; stand with him while he is
right, and part with him when he goes wrong." Lincoln.
Freedom. True freedom is the freedom to do right, and for it good men
contend. The liberty to do what one may wish to do, is not freedom, for
that may be wrong.
Tact. Tact is the ability to please rather than offend, by saying or
doing the right thing in a pleasant way at the right time, ignoring
petty slights and insults and leading disagreeable people to become your
friends.
Blessed is the teacher who expects much from his pupils, he is thereby
likely to receive it; that has common sense in framing regulations, and
backbone to enforce them; whose vocabulary contains more "do's" than
"don'ts." Lucy A. Baker.
The little birds, like the busy bees, are cheery and valuable helpers.
Encourage their presence and aid, by planting trees for their songs and
building little houses for their young.
The domestic animals are our servants and profit-makers, or mortgage
lifters. Always treat them kindly. Never permit anyone to strike, or
stone them. Even the pig of your neighbor, when he becomes a mischievous
intruder in your field, if you give him a friendly chase, will conduct
you to a hole in the fence that ought to be closed.
"Kind words can never die,
Cherished and blest;
God knows how deep they lie,
Stored in each breast."
Character. Character is a word derived from another one that means to
impress or engrave. It marks our individuality. It is the result of the
principles and habits, that have impressed themselves on our nature and
the abilities that have been developed. Solomon calls it a good name,
which suggests reputation. It is tested and strengthened by overcoming
difficulties. A good character is within the reach of all while
greatness is possible only to a few.
"When wealth is lost, nothing is lost;
When health is lost, something is lost;
When character is lost, all is lost."
Character. "Character is not what we think, feel or know; but what we
are. Character is being; and it is infinitely nobler to be than to have,
or know, or do. The rank, value and dignity of character cannot be
overestimated. The confidence of the whole world on which trade,
empires, homes and real happiness are built is confidence in character.
Character is the great end; moral and spiritual education is the
greatest means to attain that end."--Martin.
Character is personal power, the poor boy's best capital and the
success, that makes him greater than his occupation. The weak wait for
opportunities, but the strong seize them and make even common occasions
great.
The world honors success. God honors faithfulness. The world commends
worldly achievements, but God rewards character.
Every student should endeavor to build up the community in which he
lives commercially, socially and religiously.
Beware of strangers that come to you full of smooth talk and clad in
fine clothing. The tree, book, land and other agents sometimes prove
helpful. But you will be happier and more prosperous, if you will send
for a catalog and get just what you need, and at cost. You will thereby
avoid the expensiveness and uncertainty of doing business through a
nicely dressed, but irresponsible stranger.
The upright exert a blessed influence long after their departure from
the earth. They are remembered in the home, the social circle and the
church.
"That man exists, but never lives,
Who much receives but nothing gives;
But he who marks his busy way,
By generous acts from day to day,
Treads the same path his Savior trod,
The path to glory and to God."
Education. Everything from a pin to an engine has its cost and someone
must pay the price.
In education the material is human and the product is a new and living
worker for the world's work. The material and moral progress of the
world has been principally due to the work of educated men and women.
Education has its cost, but the profit of a good christian education is
vastly greater than its cost. It pays to educate young people who are
christians, that they may become leaders in thought and action.
"A good education enables one to manifest goodness and not badness.
Drawing out all the good qualities of head and heart, it magnifies them
and suppresses the bad ones. If this seems hard, it should be remembered
that all things of value are obtained only by effort."
"For every evil under the sun
There's a remedy, or there's none,
If there is one, try and find it;
If there is none, never mind it."
"A clear and legible handwriting is one of the best means of giving a
stranger an impression of force of character, self-control and capacity
for skilled work. It wins favor by making the reading of it easy and a
source of pleasure. It is one of the crowning attainments of a well
cultured life."--Spencer.
"Success follows those who see and know how to take advantage of their
opportunity."
The Lord loves to use "the weak things" and "things that are despised."
He loves to put the treasure of His grace into the feeble, that the
world may be compelled to ask, "whence hath this man power?" Rev. J. H.
Jowett.
Self education is accomplished by reading good books, with the aid of a
dictionary. Get a Bible dictionary for the Bible, and a Webster or
Academic dictionary for other books.
Do all things by rule. A good rule tells the right way to do things. If
you do not know the rule ask for it. Never violate a known rule. It
never pays to do so; the confidence of someone is sure to be forfeited.
Keep Busy. Keep busy and you will keep happy. Read good books when you
cannot work. If you call on a friend and he is busy, do not become an
idler or make him one. Either help him or read his best books.
Idleness. Idleness is a sin against God. "Six days shalt thou labor and
do all thy work." "In the sweat of thy face shalt thou eat bread." "If
any man will not work, neither let him eat." It is also a sin against
our nature; causing a slow movement, which is a serious disappointment;
tardiness, which is like a dead fly in precious ointment; and, that
loathsome disease, laziness. Like drunkenness it is an inexcusable
shame, that dooms one to poverty and clothes him with rags. Shun
idleness as you do the sting of a hornet, or the bite of a rattler.
"We are not here to play, to dream, to drift,
We have our work to do, and loads to lift.
Shun not the struggle; face it. 'Tis God's gift."
"They are slaves who fear to speak,
For the fallen and the weak.
They are slaves who will not choose
Hatred, scoffing and abuse,
Rather than in silence shrink
From the truth they needs must think;
They are slaves, who dare not be
In the right with two or three." Lowell.
Do your best. Put your best efforts in your work, no matter how simple
or difficult the task.
"I am passing through this world but once. I will therefore do my best
every day, and do all the good to all the people I can."
"I do the very best I know how--the very best I can; and I mean to keep
doing so until the end. If the end brings me out all right, what is said
against me won't amount to anything. If the end brings me out wrong, ten
angels swearing I was right would make no difference." Abraham Lincoln.
Efficiency. Efficiency is the ability to perform work in the shortest
and quickest way, by omitting every useless movement.
Faith. Faith rests on facts and realities. It is the basis of home and
business. "It swings the rainbow across the dark clouds, makes heroes in
life's battles, extracts the poison from Satan's arrows and links us to
God and the good in heaven."
Let us have faith that right makes might, and in that faith let us to
the end dare to do our duty, as we understand it. With malice toward
none, with charity for all, with firmness in the right as God gives us
to see the right, let us strive on to finish, the work we are in.
Abraham Lincoln at Gettysburg.
Gladness. Gladness is sown for the upright. The joy of the Lord is your
strength. Manifest your joy and gladness by wearing the smile of
contentment and love. It includes a sparkle in the eye, a little ripple
on the cheek and the kind word that "never dies."
"Smile and the world smiles with you,
Laugh and the world will roar,
Growl and the world will leave you,
And never come back any more.
All of us could not be handsome,
Nor all of us wear good clothes,
But a smile is not expensive,
And covers a world of woes."
Energy. Energy is power in action. Stagnant water lacks power, but water
in action produces steam, the power that moves the world's machinery and
traffic. Knowledge in action means power on the farm, in the home and in
the church.
"God bless the man who sows the wheat,
Produces milk and fruit and meat;
His purse be heavy, his heart be light,
His corn and cattle all go right,
God bless the seed his hand lets fall,
The farmer produces the food for all."
Knowledge. Knowledge is power, when it is wisely assorted, assimilated
and immediately employed; as is the water of a river, when it is used to
produce electric power. The knowledge that leads to sovereign power,
includes self-knowledge, self-respect and self-control. The man who does
well whatsoever he undertakes, cannot be kept down, except by his own
indiscretions.
A good character is essential to the soul winner. It is a false notion
that one must meet the world on its own level--drink to win a drinker,
smoke to win a smoker, and play the world's games in order to win it to
Christ. Richard Hobbs.
Thrift. Thrift consists in increasing the value of our possessions every
year, by making good investments of our time and money, and by earning
more than is spent for living expenses. "A penny saved is two pence
earned."
Our Father in heaven sends no man into this world without a work, and a
capacity to perform that work.
"Live for those that love you,
For those you know are true;
For the cause that lacks assistance,
For the wrong that needs resistance;
For the future in the distance:
And the good that you can do."
"A fool with a gun or an axe can destroy in five minutes, what it took
nature years to perfect and perpetuate."
A little house well filled,
A little field well tilled,
A good wife well willed, are great riches.
Leaders. Be a leader. A leader does his thinking before hand and
endeavors to provide for every need. He must be well informed and know
how to arouse interest and stimulate activity. He must discover and
adopt only the best methods. The rewards of leadership are a continually
increasing power to lead others and the ability to conduct your own
life most usefully and happily.
"A good farmer's tools are under shelter;
But Pete Tumbledown's lie helter-skelter;
And when he wants his tools again
He finds them rusty from the rain."
"Divide and conquer," was Joshua's rule of strategy in the conquest of
Canaan. "Separate for the march, unite for the attack," was a maxim of
Napoleon. Both are good rules for the people in all our churches, in
their constant conflict with vice and iniquity.
The noblest man does not always uphold his rights, but waives them for
his own good and the good of others. A keen sense of honor, that
condemns dishonorable conduct, is one of the finest results of a good
education. Education is expected to do for the mind, what sculpture does
to a block of marble.
"A merry farmer's girl am I,
My songs are gay and blithe;
For in my humble country home
I lead a free, glad life.
Through fertile fields and gardens mine,
I love at will to roam,
And as I wander gayly sing,
This is my own, free home,
My own free home."
Genius. There is no genius like a love for hard work. Hard work develops
strength, increases usefulness, and tends to length of days. Six days
shalt thou labor and do all thy work. In the sweat of thy face shalt
thou eat bread. Labor conquers all things.
"He lives the best who never does complain,
Whether the passing days be filled with sun or rain.
Who patiently toils on though feet be sore,
Whose home stands by the road with open door;
Who smiles though down he sits to feast or crust,
His faith in man sincere, in God his trust."
A. F. Caldwell.
Seek employment by the month or year, rather than by the day; and render
unswerving loyalty to those of your own home, school and church; and
those who favor you with employment.
A man's work is the expression of his worth. It should make a man of
him, and give him great pleasure and delight. When a man knows his work
and does it with the enthusiasm of Nehemiah, it gives him joy and
enables him to exert a good influence. "That man is blest who does his
best and leaves the rest."
The world owes no man a living, but every man owes the world an honest
effort to make at least his own living.
SAVE THE BOY; SAVE THE GIRL!
Save them from bad habits and evil associations. Save them for useful
careers, happy homes and a glorious inheritance.
"If a blessing you have known,
'Twas not given for you alone,
Pass it on.
Let it travel down the years,
Let it dry another's tears,
Till in heaven the deed appears,
Pass it on."
Greatness: Goodness is the basis of that service that leads to
greatness. The keynote of that service is found in the words: "The Son
of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister; and to give his
life for many." The cross is the symbol of a service that is faithful,
even unto death.
"So live that every thought and deed may hold within itself the seed of
future good and future need."
Undertake great things for God and His glory and expect great things
from Him.
"Never trouble trouble
Until trouble troubles you."
Prudent, hopeful and enthusiastic are those who make the "desert to
rejoice and blossom as the rose."
Habits: A habit is a cable; we spin a thread of it every day, and at
last we cannot break it.
Thoughts leave an ineffaceable trace on the brain or memory.
"Sow a thought and you reap an act,
Sow an act and you reap a habit,
Sow a habit and you reap a character,
Sow a character and you reap a destiny."
A pretty oak tree is a beautiful emblem of the strength, beauty and
eminent usefulness of an intelligent and noble man. Train the head, the
heart and hand, and thus develop that strength and beauty of character,
that fits one for the most eminent usefulness.
A single aim means undivided attention and interest. Concentrate your
faculties on the particular work of each day, that later you may be able
to give your undivided attention to your chosen employment. All great
achievements have been won by those who have had a single aim. "Consider
the postage stamp, my son; its usefulness consists in sticking to one
thing, until it gets there."--Josh Billings.
Concentrate your energies and be master of your work. The world crowns
him who knows one thing and does it better than others.
I will. Always say, "I will" or "I'll try," when work or a duty is
proposed, that can and ought to be done. Never say, "I can't" or "I
won't", except to resist a temptation to do wrong. While the "I can'ts"
fail in everything, and the "I won'ts" oppose everything, the "I will's"
do the world's work.
God has a plan for every life. He made you for use and for His own use.
He gives power to those whom He uses. Let Him use you. Your happiness
depends on the consciousness you are fulfilling your divinely appointed
mission; and your success, on your will being in harmony with your work.
Only the tuned violin can make music; and only the life in harmony with
God can "please him" or "win souls" to Him. Spiritual power is necessary
for spiritual work.
Investments. Invest only where your investment will be under your own
personal supervision, or that of a known and trusted friend. Invest only
in those kinds of properties, the successful and profitable management
of which, you best understand.
Investments in young stock and good real estate increase in value; but
investments in rolling stock always decrease in value. Buy low from
those who have to sell, and sell to those who want to buy.
Seek counsel only of those who are achieving success, and never trust a
stranger.
Home. A home is one of the best investments for every one of moderate
means. It provides a shelter for the individual and for the family, no
matter what may happen. A regular income must be assured in order to
retain a place to sleep in a rented house. The early desire to own a
home makes steady employment a source of pleasure.
It is not what we eat, but what we digest, that makes us strong.
It is not what we read, but what we remember, that makes us learned.
It is not what we earn, but what we save, that makes us rich.
Home. A christian home is a precious heritage. It is the divinely
appointed educator of mankind. Its seclusion, shelter and culture are
invaluable. There the mother whose hand rocks the cradle, moves the
world, teaching the lessons of obedience, self-control, faith and trust.
Use only a mellow and sweet tone of voice in the home. A kind and gentle
voice is a pearl of great price that, like the cheery song of the lark,
increases the joy and happiness of the home with passing years.
"The farmer's trade is one of worth,
He is partner with the earth and sky;
He is partner with the sun and rain,
And no man loses by his gain.
And men may rise and men may fall;
The farmer, he must feed them all."
"Man's chief end is to glorify God and enjoy Him forever."
Knowledge. "Other things may be seized by might or purchased with money;
but knowledge is to be gained only by study."--Johnson.
"He that studies only men, will get the body of knowledge, without the
soul; and he that studies only books, the soul without the body. He that
to what he sees adds observation, and to what he reads, reflection, is
in the right road to knowledge, provided that in scrutinizing the hearts
of others he neglects not his own."--Cotton.
Co-operation. "All real progress of the individual, or of society, comes
through the joining of hands and working together in a spirit of
helpfulness for the common good."
A brother in need is a brother indeed.
"Whoso hath this world's goods and seeth his brother in need and
shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwelleth the love of
God in him?"
Never go security for any one who cannot give you a mortgage or whose
word is not as good as his bond. "He that is surety for a stranger,
shall smart for it; and he that hateth suretyship is sure."
Eloquence. Eloquence is the expression of a moral conviction. It is
overpowering when the moral conviction is tremendously felt. This was
the secret of the eloquence of Lincoln, Beecher and Garrison, when they
spoke of the wrong of slavery; and of John B. Gough, Neal Dow and
Frances Willard, when they plead for an uprising against the curse of
strong drink.
Marriage. Marriage is a divine ordinance, instituted by our Heavenly
Father in the time of man's innocency. It is not a sacrament, but a
social institution, intended to promote the comfort and happiness of
mankind, through the establishment of the family relationship, and a
responsible home, where the children may be trained for the service of
God and the work of their generation. The gospel hallows all the
relations of life and sanctions the innocent enjoyment of all the good
gifts of God. It purifies the hearts of those who walk in the way of
obedience and induces the peace that passeth understanding.
"Life is real, life is earnest
And the grave is not its goal,
Dust thou art to dust returnest,
Was not written of the soul.
Let us then be up and doing,
With a heart for any fate;
Still achieving still pursuing,
Learn to labor and to wait."--Longfellow.
Robbers. Idleness, tardiness and "late nights," are three bold bad
robbers, that must be strenuously resisted and overcome. Be watchful or
they may rob you of the best that is in you.
Spare Moments. It is better to be a busy silent reader in the home or
school and learn something useful, than to be an idle, noisy talker,
disturbing others and causing the loss or forfeiture of valuable
privileges.
Have a book for spare moments in the home. Read only good books, the
Bible and catechism first; then those on history, biography, travel, and
progress in the arts and sciences, including one on your own occupation.
Do not read worthless story books. They will rob you of your time, and
the taste for the Bible and other good books. Time wasted in idleness or
reading worthless books means bad companions, bad habits, and the loss
of opportunity, energy and vitality. Learn to abhor idleness as nature
does a vacuum.
Say No. Have the courage to say "no" to every solicitation to violate
rule or known duty. "The companion of fools shall be destroyed." "Though
hand join in hand the guilty shall not go unpunished." "This is
Fabricius, the man whom it is more difficult to turn from his integrity,
than the sun from his course."--Pyrrhus.
Writing. Train the hand and inform the mind so you can write the English
language,
"Plain to the eye and gracefully combined."
"The pen engraves for every art and indites for every press. It is the
preservative of language, the business man's security, the poor boy's
patron and the ready servant of mind."--Spencer.
Train: The hand to be graceful, steady, strong;
The Eye to be alert and observing;
The Memory to be accurate and retentive;
The Heart to be tender, true and sympathetic.
Promptness. Promptness takes the drudgery out of an occupation. The
decision of a moment often determines the destiny of years. Every moment
lost affords an opportunity for misfortune. Punctuality is the soul of
business, the mother of confidence and credit. Only those, who keep
their time, can be trusted to keep their word. Tardiness is a
disappointment and an interruption; a kind of falsehood and theft of
time.
Vices. The four great vices of this age are Sabbath-breaking, gambling,
intemperance and licentiousness. These must be fought all the time, like
the great plagues that attack the body, tuberculosis, leprosy and small
pox. The gospel will save any one from all of them; and some day it will
sweep them from the earth, as they are now kept from heaven.
"A Sabbath well spent
Brings a week of content,
And strength for the toils of the morrow;
But a Sabbath profaned,
Whatso'er may be gained,
Is a certain forerunner of sorrow."
To be a leader is a praiseworthy ambition. A leader is one who wins the
confidence of the people so that they are willing to follow. Our Lord
Jesus gave the secret of leadership, when he said: "Whosoever would be
first among you, shall be servant of all;" and again, "The Son of Man
came not be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a
ransom for many."
America. America is a land of opportunity, where the poor boy secures a
home and later may participate in the government. Most of those, who are
managing the world's work to day, were poor boys yesterday. If you are
in the school of adversity today, do not be discouraged, "thank God and
take courage;" for you are merely on the same level with those, who by
their energy and thrift, are making sure of success tomorrow. When Lord
Beaconsfield became a member of Parliament, and the other members did
not care to listen to his youthful speeches, he said to himself, "I am
not a slave nor a captive; and by energy I can overcome great obstacles.
The time will come when you will hear me."
Books. "The first time I read an excellent book," said Goldsmith, "it is
to me as if I had gained a new friend." "Books are the pillars of
progress, the inspiration of mankind. They exert a wonderful influence
and a mighty power, though silent," says John Knox in Ready Money, "in
lifting up humanity and making progress possible." They enable the
reader to converge and associate with the noblest and best minds. In
them we have the thoughts and deeds, the experience and inspiration of
all the great ones of earth.
[Illustration: FRUITS APPROVED AT OAK HILL IN 1912, FOR THE
HOME ORCHARD IN SOUTHERN OKLAHOMA.
_Peaches:_ 1. Mamie Ross; 2. Waddell; 3. Alton; 4. Capt. Ede; 5. Carman;
6. _Early Elberta_; 7. Illinois; 8. Elberta Queen; 9. Belle of Georgia;
10. Champion; 11. Late Crawford; 12. Late Elberta.
_Apples:_ 13. Duchess; 14. Maiden Blush; 15. Wilson Red June; 16.
Delicious; 17. Jonathon; 18. Wolf River; 19. King David; 20. Stayman
Wine Sap; 21. Ben Davis; 22. Mammoth Grimes Golden; 23. Black Ben; 24.
Champion; and, Missouri Pippin.]
[Illustration: THE FLAMES CONSUMING THE OLD FARM HOUSE,
LOOKING NORTHEAST.]
[Illustration: THE BRIDGE OF LIFE.
The Bible elements of a good character: their two-fold foundation, and
bond--the Sabbath.]
Good books, that breathe the best thoughts and experiences of others,
are trusted friends, that bring instruction, entertainment and
contentment to the home. As companions and counselors they supply a real
want, that makes the home more than merely a place for food and raiment.
"Writing makes an exact man, talking makes a ready man, but reading
makes him a full man,"--that is a man of intelligence. A man is known by
the books he reads and the company he keeps. Let some of the world's
best books find an inviting and permanent place in your home.
Books and voices make a glorious combination. No one can tell what good
books and good voices may not do. The Word of God and the gospel of our
Lord Jesus, have come to us in the form of a book, and we call it by way
of pre-eminence, "The Bible," or Scriptures of the Old and New
Testaments. Our attention has been directed to them by the living voice.
Let your tongues proclaim the glad message of divine truth and redeeming
love. The Holy Spirit will record the results in the Lamb's Book of
Life.
Read and preserve the books.
WIT AND HUMOR
"Laugh, and grow fat."
"A merry heart doeth good like a medicine."
Aunt Dinah: "How long hab you dis set of dishes?"
Mother Hubbard: "Let me see; I've had 'em--four girls and a half."
Mike: "Do ye believe in the recall of judges, Pat?"
Pat: "That I do not. The last time I was up before his honor he sez: 'I
recall that face.--Sixty days.' I'm agin the recall of judges." Life.
Bishop: "Well, Mr. Jones, how do you like your preacher?"
Deacon Jones: "He's de best I eber seed, to take de Bible apart; but he
dun' no how to put it to gedder agen."
A Swede, that had not yet had time to learn our language was accused of
throwing a stone through a plate glass window. When the lawyers failed
to enable him to describe it's size the judge asked:
"Was it as big as my fist?"
"It ben bigger," the Swede replied.
"Was it as big as my two fists?"
"It ben bigger."
"Was it as big as my head?"
"It ben about as long, but not so thick," the Swede replied, amid the
laughter of the court.
* * * * *
The German's trouble with the English language.
Visitor: "Those are two fine dogs you have."
Cobbler: "Yes und de funny part of it iss, dat de biggest dog is de
leettlest one."
Cobbler's Wife: "You must mine husband egscuse; he shpeaks not very good
English. He means de oldest dog is de youngest one."
XXXI
RULES, MOTTOES AND COURSE OF STUDY
WALL MOTTOES
I. OAK HILL MOTTO
Time is precious
Time is money--
Do not stand idle, waiting,
Do not keep others waiting,
Do something useful.
Be a busy, silent worker,
Shun the idle, noisy shirker.
II. RULE OF ORDER
Order is the first law of Heaven, and it is the first rule
in every well regulated home, school and church.
IT REQUIRES THAT EVERYONE:
BE in the right place at the right time,
DO the right thing in the right way,
DO the same things the same way,
KEEP everything in the right place; and
COMPLETE whatever has been undertaken.
ENDEAVOR BENEDICTION
"The Lord bless thee and keep thee:
"The Lord make his face shine upon thee and be gracious
unto thee:
"The Lord lift up his countenance upon thee, and give
thee peace.
"And unto him that loved us, and washed us from our
sins in his own blood and hath made us kings and priests
unto God and his Father; to him be glory and dominion forever
and ever. Amen."
III. ESSENTIALS TO SUCCESS
An unwavering aim,
Unswerving integrity,
Intelligent industry,
Neverfailing promptness,
Indomitable perseverance,
Unbounded enthusiasm,
Willing and strict economy,
In the employment of time,
Talents, money and expenses.
IV. BUSY DAY
THIS is our BUSY DAY.
Do not intrude here to day.
Come some other day.
LOAFERS
Are worse than useless. Their presence here is
STRICTLY FORBIDDEN.
=KEY WORDS:= The Key words that open or close doors of opportunity, and
contrast the characteristics of the good and bad student, are as
follows:
GOOD STUDENT
=POET:= Politeness, Obedience, Economy and Earnestness, Thoughtfulness.
BAD PUPIL
=DIED:= Disorderly conduct, Idleness, Extravagance, Deceit.
GOOD WORKMAN
=STEAM:= Steam is a good key word, to enable one to remember how the good
workman works efficiently and profitably. He works:
Steadily,
Thoughtfully,
Enthusiastically,
Alone,
Methodically.
RULES AND REGULATIONS
I. STUDENTS
=The Superintendent and Teachers= wish all the students to be gladdened
and strengthened by the joy of successful achievement. To effect this
each student must learn to do promptly and thoroughly everything he
knows he ought to do, and refrain absolutely from doing anything he
knows he ought not to do. "The joy of the Lord is your strength."
=Order.= Good order must be maintained in all the buildings and premises.
It requires that there be a place for everything and everything be kept
in its place; that each student know his place and be in it at the right
nick of time.
=Silence.= All are expected to be silent, thoughtful, earnest workers so
as to make perfect recitations. The discipline of absolute silence is
necessary to the attainment of complete self control, and the
achievement of the best results, both as a student and workman. Silence
must be observed in the Academy at all times, and only a low tone of
voice is appropriate in the other buildings at any time.
=Obedience.= All are expected to yield a prompt and cheerful obedience to
all the Rules and Regulations, and never indulge in any disputes with
your teachers.
Students render themselves liable to suspension or expulsion by
persistent disobedience, quarreling, disorderly conduct, profane or
unchaste language, truancy, or general disregard for the rules of the
school.
No student known to be affected with a contagious disease, or coming
from a family where such diseases exist, shall be received or continued
in the school.
Pupils must procure drinks and make all other necessary preparation for
school at playtime, and keep their places after the bell rings.
Pupils shall not ask questions, walk across or leave the room while
classes are reciting, nor at any other time without permission.
Pupils must observe the common forms of politeness and at all times
treat their teachers and one another with courtesy and respect.
No pupil shall be permitted to leave or be absent from the school
during school hours, except in case of illness without an excuse from
the superintendent or parent.
=Rooms.= The rooms occupied by the students are merely sleeping
apartments; and for this purpose the pure cold air in them is conducive
to the enjoyment of the most rugged health. They must not be used for
study or amusement, especially at night; and drafts of air from the
windows must be avoided.
Each student on rising, when no other provision is made is expected to
air the bed and room, to empty the slop pail and put it on its shelf in
the sun, to make the bed and sweep the room; and after breakfast to
report for duty, the boys at the office, and the girls to the matron.
They will report in the same way at 2:30 p.m., and the children at 4:00
p.m.
All are expected to refrain from returning to the sleeping rooms during
the day, from entering the rooms of others in the evening and from
receiving visitors without permission. The doors must be kept closed.
=Illness.= The first duty of everyone who becomes ill is to report that
fact to the superintendent, or matron. He expects everyone to perform
every duty assigned in a faithful and responsible manner, until notice
of illness has been received.
All are required, even when feeling indisposed and lacking an appetite,
to come to the table for warm drinks at the regular meal time.
All requests for meals to be brought to the rooms, shall be sent to the
matron or superintendent at or before meal time.
=Sitting Rooms.= The small boys, when needing the comfort of a warm room,
must occupy their own sitting room, and the larger boys and girls the
rooms provided for them, respectively; each endeavoring to make a good
use of their spare moments, while occupying these places, and observe
the rule requiring quiet and good order in the buildings.
=Chapel Bell.= The chapel bell shall be rung at 7:45 and 7:55 a.m.; at
12:45 and 12:55 p.m.; at 2:40 p.m. and at 6:45 and 6:55 p.m. Every
student is expected to be in his place and be ready for work on his
studies, before the tap bell is heard at 8:00 a.m., 1:00 p.m. and 7:00
p.m.
=Farm Bell.= The signal for the janitors or fire makers shall be rung
at 5:40 a.m., the call to rise, at 6:00 a.m.; for dinner at 11:40 a.m.;
supper at 5:40 p.m.; retiring at 8:20 and 8:30 p.m., when all lights in
the rooms must be put out.
The dining room bell will ring for breakfast, at 6:20 a.m.; dinner, at
11:55 a.m.; supper, at 6:00 p.m.
All matters for the mail must be delivered at the office before 1:00
p.m.
II. MEETINGS AND CHORES
=Genius.= All are encouraged to learn how to work hard and constantly, and
to use every spare moment for some good purpose. There is no genius like
that for hard work. Enthusiastic interest in one's work is essential to
success. Idleness is a sin, a waste of life, and cannot be endured at
Oak Hill, which is intended to be a hive of industry.
=Carefulness.= All must learn to use rightly and carefully the books,
slates, tools, and furniture entrusted to them. All injuries to books,
furniture or buildings must be paid for by those guilty of injuring
them.
=Services.= All, unless specially excused, are required to attend all the
religious services on the Sabbath, including the Bible Memory class. The
=Endeavor= meeting is the student's special training service; all are
expected to participate in it, by at least reading or repeating a verse
of Scripture; and in the Bible Memory class by committing an average of
one verse a day. All are encouraged to covet the best gifts, especially
the power of complete self-control, and the ability to say things
forcibly, and do things thoroughly.
=Speakers.= Those speak with authority, who, instead of telling what they
think, or making an apology, tell what the Bible, the law of the Lord,
says. All should endeavor to instruct, animate and encourage; none
should ever indulge in fault-finding, or allude to any personal
grievance.
=Leaders.= Leaders of meetings are expected to be fully prepared before
hand, to stand when they speak; to speak sufficiently loud and distinct
as to be easily heard by the most distant listener; to repeat the
numbers of the hymns; to request the audience to stand during prayer; to
afford an opportunity for volunteer prayers or remarks; and to close the
meeting as soon as the interest in it has ended.
=Immorality.= No one guilty of persistent immoral conduct, will either be
admitted, or be permitted to remain at the academy.
=Chores.= The domestic work in all the buildings, the care of the stock,
and the preparation of the fuel, are apportioned among the students, and
all are required to do their part.
=Janitors.= The janitors must see that the kindling has been provided in
the evening; rise promptly at the call of the janitor's signal; and have
the fires in the sitting rooms and chapel burning in good shape, before
the ringing of the rising bell. These fires are to be maintained during
the day by those specially appointed to perform that duty. All are
expected, to exercise good judgment and practice economy in the use of
both the kindling and wood. The ashes from all the stoves must be
carried to the heap every morning. Only old vessels may be used for this
purpose and these, when emptied, must be returned to their proper
places.
=Care of Stock.= Those assigned the care of the stock are required to be
prompt and faithful in caring for it; in the morning, at noon and
evening day by day, according to instructions, without having to be
prompted. This work must not be left undone or entrusted to others,
without first notifying the superintendent.
=Other Chores.= This rule, requiring faithfulness, applies also to those,
who have been assigned the chore work about the buildings, kindling
fires, sweeping halls, cleaning lamps, carrying water and wood.
=Hall Lamps.= The hall lamps, water pails and other fixtures, that are
intended to serve all, must never be removed from their places, to
render service to an individual.
III. WORK AND THINGS FORBIDDEN
=Work Period.= All over 13 years of age are expected to render three full
hours of faithful and efficient work each day, and on Saturday until
2:30 p.m. Time lost by tardiness, or unnecessary absence during the
working period, must be made up before the end of the term.
=Object.= The aim of your teachers, during these work-periods, is to give
you a practical knowledge of the simple arts of life; that you may be
intelligent, capable and efficient workmen; be enabled to make your own
homes more comfortable, and create a demand for your services.
=Tool Rules.= Each workman, at the close of the work period, must return
all tools used to their proper place. If they have been transferred,
then the last one using them must return them. None are permitted to use
any tools, or touch any musical instrument, until they have been taught
the rules relating to them; and have been shown how to use them, and do
the work in a skillful and workmanlike manner. Tools must never be taken
to any of the rooms to do any repair work.
=Non-interference.= When students are working under the direction of
anyone, they must not be interfered with by others, nor leave the work
assigned them, without the knowledge and approval of the one, under
whose direction they are working at the time.
=Irregularity.= Irregularity greatly interferes with a student's progress
and the work of his class and teacher. Leave of absence during the term
cannot therefore be granted, except for the most urgent reasons. Those,
that from any cause, miss one or more lessons, should endeavor to master
them when they return.
=Caution.= All are kindly advised never to be guilty of any word or act,
that will be likely to cause you to forfeit the esteem and confidence of
the superintendent, or your teachers. A good student endeavors to aid
and cheer, but never disobeys or annoys a teacher.
=Things Forbidden.= Never permit yourself to indulge in any dispute with
your teacher in the school room, shop or field.
Don't tease, ridicule or despise others; be polite and courteous to each
other.
Don't indulge in the use of profane or obscene language, or in any acts
of deceit, falsehood or theft.
Don't use or have in your possession, any intoxicating liquors, tobacco
or snuff in any form; gamblers' or obscene cards or pictures; concealed
weapons; or soil the floors with spittle or wash water.
Don't indulge in singing, whistling, unnecessary talking or foolish
laughter while working with others; or play ball while others are
working, or choring.
All communications between boys and girls, and all association or
interference on the play grounds are strictly forbidden.
At the close of all meetings, especially those in the evening, the girls
are required to go directly and quietly to their hall.
Don't be extravagant or foppish in your dress, or borrow or lend, either
clothing or money.
Don't send home for eatables or other unnecessary things. New clothing,
especially shoes, should not be sent from home, without having the
measure taken. It is better to send the money.
Every article of clothing needing to be washed must have the owner's
name.
Don't tamper with the street lamp, or the plugs in the water trough; nor
change the pins, tubs or tube at the well; nor roughly jerk the pump
handles at the well and cisterns.
Use everything in the way and for the purpose for which it was intended,
never otherwise.
Don't leave your seat in the school room, or go out of it during school
hours, without permission from your teacher. Never sit on the tops of
the desks.
=Teachers.= Each teacher is expected to keep in an orderly form on the
teacher's desk, for use in conducting recitations, a complete set of the
Text books used by the classes; and to prepare before hand all lessons
or parts thereof that may not be familiar.
The power of suspension or exclusion is vested only in the
superintendent. This power must never be exercised by any of his helpers
without his previous knowledge and approval.
All matters relating to the repair of the buildings and their equipment
should be promptly reported to the superintendent.
The aim of the primary teacher, at the time of recitation, should be to
have all the pupils reproduce the entire lesson one or more times in
concert and then individually to accomplish this with as few words as
possible.
The aim of every teacher should be to make Oak Hill, to all the young
people pursuing their studies here, a fountain of inspiration, a
sanctuary where fellowship with the Redeemer of the world and a new
discovery of the glory of God shall be among the blessings bestowed.
=Book Marks.= The teachers are required to furnish every new pupil one
complete set of approved, folded marginal book marks; one for each text
book, and for both the Sunday school and Memory lessons in the Bible. By
example and precept, they are expected to require them to keep them in
their proper places, and if carelessly lost, to replace them with new
ones of their own making. Among the objects to be attained by the
enforcement of this rule are the habit of carefulness in little things,
to save the books from other injurious methods of marking and to save
the time of the teacher, class and pupil.
FIRE PRECAUTIONS
The rooms occupied by the students must be carefully inspected by the
matrons or their special monitors every time the students leave them for
the school or chapel; to see that the buildings have not been endangered
by any acts of carelessness or thoughtlessness.
The ladders must be kept where they may be easily and quickly obtained.
On the first Friday of each term the students shall be organized into a
Fire Department, the superintendent serving as chief and the matrons and
teachers as his special aids. The fire-fighters shall include the
pumpers and a bucket brigade; the life and property savers shall include
the ladder squad; and the strenuous work of all shall continue until the
building or the last possible piece of property has been saved.
The fire drills shall consist of quick orderly marches, at an unexpected
signal, from all the buildings occupied, and the report of each squad
for duty to their respective foremen.
TO PARENTS
These suggestions to parents or guardians appear on the monthly report
cards.
This report is sent you in the hope it will give you that information
you naturally desire to receive in regard to the work and standing of
the pupils you have sent to the academy.
In your communications to your children encourage them to be prompt and
punctual in meeting every engagement, to remember the Sabbath day, to
improve their spare moments by reading the Bible or some good book, to
do their best during the hours of study and work each day, and to
refrain from association with the idle or worthless.
(1) SALUTE TO THE FLAG
(2) We give our heads (3) and our hearts (4) to our Country. (5) One
country, one language (6) one flag.
1. All rise and extend right arm toward the flag. 2 Touch forehead with
tips of the fingers. 3. Right palm over the heart. 4. Both hands
extended upward. 5. Lean forward, hands at sides. 6. With emphasis,
right hand pointing to the flag. Sing America.
"The red is for love that will dare and do
The blue is the sign of the brave and true.
The white with all evil and wrong shall cope,
And the silver stars are the stars of hope."
THE STUDENTS GOODBYE
Good bye, Oak Hill; good bye;
We're off to the fields and the open sky;
But we shall return in the fall, you know,
As glad to return as we are now to go.
Good bye, Oak Hill; Good bye,
THE COURSE OF STUDY
The following is the course of study pursued at the academy, the high
school course being added June 1, 1912.
I. PRIMARY DEPARTMENT
First Grade: First Reader, Reading Chart, Primer, Printing, Numbers and
Tables. Books of Bible, Memory Work.
Second Grade: Second Reader, Doubs Speller, Printing, Writing, Tables,
Primary Arithmetic. Also the Bible, Shorter Catechism and Vocal Music in
this and the subsequent grades.
II. INTERMEDIATE DEPARTMENT
Third Grade: Third Reader, Doubs Speller, (Smith's) Primary Arithmetic,
Principles of Penmanship, (Spencer or Eaton), Introductory Language
Work, Primary Geography.
Fourth Grade: Fourth Reader, Doubs Speller, Primary Arithmetic, Writing,
(Thompson's) Principles of Drawing, Primary Geography, (Krohn's) First
Book in Physiology.
Leslie's Music Chart and Ideal Class Book; and Thwing's Voice Culture,
are used weekly for instruction in the principles, and general drills in
gesture, note reading and voice culture.
III. GRAMMAR DEPARTMENT
Fifth Grade: Fifth Reader, U. S. History, Doubs Speller, Primary
Arithmetic, Reed & Kellogg's Graded Lessons in English, or Burt's
Grammar, Physiology, Writing, Nature Study Chart.
Sixth Grade: Fifth Reader, History of United States or Oklahoma, Doubs
Speller, (Smith's) Practical Arithmetic, Writing, Geography, Drawing,
Burt's Grammar or Reed & Kellogg's Graded Lessons in English,
Agriculture.
Seventh Grade: The Bible, Literary Readings, Doubs Speller, Arithmetic,
Grammar, Agriculture, Civics, Writing, Geography Completed.
Eighth Grade: The Bible or Literary Readings, Doubs Speller, Grammar,
Composition, (Carson's Handbook), Arithmetic, (Evans & Bunn's) Civics,
Constitution of Oklahoma and United States, Writing, Bookkeeping
(Stephenson's), Thompson's Drawing for Rural Schools.
Wentworth's Mental Arithmetic is commended for use in the Sixth to
Eighth grades.
Frequent reviews of the rules and definitions are essential to the
attainment of a thorough knowledge of any textbook and the most rapid
advancement in it.
Didactic Electives: Page's Theory and Practice in Teaching; Holbrook on
the Teacher's Methods; Wickersham on School Government; Trumbull, the
Teacher Teaching; or similar works.
This outline of grades and studies is intended to be suggestive and
helpful to the teachers in the Academy in grading and promoting the
pupils. The pupils should be arranged in classes according to their
several abilities, rather than according to this outline in an arbitrary
manner, in order that the classes at the time of recitation may be as
large as possible rather than small. Their grade is ascertained by the
majority of their studies, and their standing or rank by their
percentage in each.
This course has been arranged in harmony with the outline course
prepared in 1908 for the public and city schools of Oklahoma, and is
intended to prepare pupils for entering the high school course
consisting of the Ninth to Twelfth grades, or a normal course consisting
of Didactics, Methods in Teaching and School Government.
A suitable certificate is issued to all pupils that complete, in a
creditable manner, all the studies in this preparatory course ending
with the Eighth grade.
The industrial work and training required of all the boarding pupils is
intended to include a practical knowledge of agriculture, animal
husbandry, apiculture, poultry raising, carpentry, cobbling, concrete,
gardening, domestic science, sewing and laundry work, as the opportunity
is afforded and the pupils discover fitness for these arts.
IV. HIGH SCHOOL DEPARTMENT
Ninth Grade: Grammar, Arithmetic, Composition, Civics, Elementary
Algebra, Bookkeeping.
Tenth Grade: Algebra, Hill's Etymology, Physical Geography, General
History, Rhetoric.
Eleventh Grade: Algebra, Rhetoric, Ancient History, American Literature
(Abernathy), Composition, Botany, Plane Geometry.
Twelfth Grade: Solid Geometry, (Hessler & Smith's) Chemistry,
Newcomber's English Literature, Political Economy.
Electives: Astronomy, Geology, Zoology, Trigonometry; Surveying,
Stenography, Typewriting, Telegraphy.
In January 1908, when P. K. Faison, first superintendent of the public
schools of McCurtain county, made his first visit to Oak Hill, he stated
that Wheelock and Oak Hill Academies were the only graded schools in
McCurtain county at that time.
TEACHING IN SUNDAY SCHOOL
As a help to young Sunday school teachers in the preparation of the
lesson and its management before the class Miss Saxe's method of five
points of analysis and five points of application are given.
ANALYSIS
1. What is the principal subject?
2. What the leading lessons?
3. Which the best verse?
4. Who are the principal persons?
5. What teaching about Christ?
APPLICATION
1. What example to follow?
2. What to avoid?
3. What duty to perform?
4. What promise to proclaim?
5. What prayer to echo?
XXXII
SAVINGS AND INVESTMENTS
"Gather up the Fragments that nothing be lost."--Jesus.
SAVINGS OR WAGES