Page:About people (IA aboutpeople00well).pdf/57

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INDIVIDUALITY IN HOME.
51

Again, as want of deference to others' individualities are the silent looks, the long gaps in conversation, the taking up one's hat and disappearing on the part of men, and the sudden absorption in mending, children, or books on the part of women, — all from want of respect for each other's characteristics, which it is only courteous to recognize as the right of each individual. Silences only deepen individualities that are on the wrong side of a subject. Frank, generous conversation, with ability to be just as pleasant the next moment as if difference of opinion had not been expressed, helps each to see his or her mistakes, to understand whether he or she is acting from love of ambition, from obstinacy, or for truth's sake. Homes must learn the impersonal art of discussion, which makes the intellect grow, and leaves love and belief in other's sincerity untouched. The stronger are we, the more do we feel the force of the French proverb, "noblesse oblige;" not that the person is aware he

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