W.E.A. — AN APPRECIATION.

Timaru Herald, Volume XCVIII, 29 April 1925, Page 3

W.E.A. AN APPRECIATION.

To the Editor of the “Timaru Herald.” Sir,—l wonder how many people appreciate the work done by the \v .E.A., and how many have overcome the unfair prejudice that has centred round the name, probably because of interpretations , put upon the word “ Workers’ ?” -1 myselr am University trained, but the W.E.A., with its lectures, in a small country borough brought new intellectual interests, _ and the stimulation so much needed in a ■district remote from towns. I wonder how many people realise what unselfishness and devotion is shown by such as Professor Shelley and Professor Condliffe (to mention two of the most interesting'examples), whb go from one end of New Zealand to the other, as well as give up many hours of each week to work for which they receive no emolument, and, perhaps, even little thanks from the general public. Some day, possibly, there may be recognition of a kind, but the extent of their influence can never bo measured. They have truly made, and will. continue (we hope who have been privileged to come under their sway through this Association) to make for us what Ruskin calls “nests of 'pleasant thoughts.”- No! perhaps what I should say is that they have stirred us up to thought, the’.r aim being not to place us in those “nests of pleasant thoughts,” but to urge us to examine and question, and get nearer to the truth, pleasant, or otherwise. These gentlemen, and their- Society (the W-E.A.) have, at least, for me, opened, up to''my mind new vistas, and have done what Ruskin says is not done foi us:—“None of us yet know, for none of us have been taught in youth what fairy tales we may build up of beautiful proof against all adversity; bright fancies, satisfied memories, noble histories, faithful sayings, treasure houses of precious, _ restful thoughts which care cannot disturb, nor pain make gloomy, nor poverty take away from us —houses built without hands, for -our souls to live in.” 1 hanking you for the . space in your valuable Pa COUNTRY TEACHER-STUDENT. . April 22nd.