Page:About people (IA aboutpeople00well).pdf/86

This page has been proofread, but needs to be validated.
80
ABOUT PEOPLE.

honest praise is never the hollowness of idle compliment; it is glad tribute gladly paid. It passes along the by-ways of life, and divines those hearts which are not strong enough to rest alone in self-respect, but need outward approval as recognition of effort.

Simplicity is often the result of early striving and of petty victories. Human nature soon passes out of the childlike, happy stage of unconsciousness. As conscience awakens, as self-reflection is observed through the co-existence of others, consciousness develops; it is the New England hereditary gift; it becomes a tormenting, prismatic light caught from every angle of life. Only as purpose deepens are the many colors concentrated into the white ray of simplicity. Sin, frivolity, selfishness, pass into rectitude, seriousness, disinterestedness; one becomes earnest to be or do something; one cares to make others happy; one's own shortcomings, misery, or happiness are all lost in intention; and