INFLUENCE.

New Zealand Times, Volume XXX, Issue 6494, 14 April 1908, Page 2

INFLUENCE.

Some think that it is only the great, and those placed in what is considered a position of influence, who have any effect on those around them. This is quite a mistake. "No man liveth to himself," much less a woman, and therefore everyone possesses an influence on those with whom they have to do in the world of home, of pleasure, or ol work. Influence, too, isn't only obtained by word; much greater is the influence of deed, of example, and greatest of tho live lived- Precept is valuable, but practice is worth a cartload of it; and sometimes tho humblest amongst us, who think their litlo candlelight is so small that its flicker is seen by none, are a living light to those around them, in that they make the best of what falls to them and do their duty in the humble sphere into which they are called. Influence is a serious thins —a great responsibility; but it fulfils but half, its paid: if it makes us ,a wet blanket to those around us. afraid of doing this or that because of its effect upon others. Be sure that this doing is right, and then go straight ahead without thinking of its effect, which is sure to bo good for others too. Be a cheering influence on' them, let your own outlook be a sunny, an upward one, even though clouds beset the near distance—

“tho rain is on the river, but the sun is on tho hill”—and you will then be sure to help others oven in their darkest hours. Encourage them as well. Many a thing which might have been great has been almost still-born because its aspirations were damped off by the lack of encouragement in some friend. The cheering word, tho helpful outlook, give those round you the benefit of these, and your light will shine brightly, even though yonre may be a farthing dip in comparison with the electric light of some of the world, who. perchance, Illumine but the way of destruction.