MODERN HYPOCRISY

Evening Post, Issue 88, 12 April 1924, Page 16

MODERN HYPOCRISY

LOST HONESTY OF CHILDHOOD.

An outstanding milestone on the road of life occurs in early childhood, writes Phyllis -Clark in the "Evening Standard. " It is the transition from unconscious pride in one's simple achievements to the adoption of a false modesty with regard to them; ."Mine, is best," we were wont to assert when'comparing a drawing, a piece of needlework, or any other childish accomplishment with that of a sister or companion, whilp. he or she ) would invariably retort,' "No, it isn't as good-as mine," until there came a day when we realised—was it instinctively, or with the help .of the" child's guide; semi-conscious imitation of grown-ups?—that 'to boast.of one's own prowess and belittle another's is One of those things that are not done. Rather should one say, "Oh,, mine's rotten," while extolling the efforts of our rival; The practice has become "a daily habit and second nature. ,Wo have lost this honesty of childhood. We' are/hypocrites. In our heart of hearts"we stillbelieve that we are beautiful, or clever though Other people may overlook the tact. VVe- think we can dance, or write poetry, or'do both rather well'; we are convinced of our ability to do,this or that efficiently. Yet we pretend weI'art nincompoops. "My ugly phiz!'" we say, when speaking, of our quito averapo face, or we joke -about what willhapp£rr ful well that our.Mace really isn't half bad. _ The tables have turned. Tho hypocrites of old': were wolves who went aiwut in sheep's clothing- seeking whom they, might devour, but this new C £?*" a* l<aW>nrileM, neither devX ing nor deceiving. '