ON HUMAN NATURE

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 80, Issue 33, 9 February 1937, Page 8

ON HUMAN NATURE

ADDRESS TO ROTARIANS UNDERSTANDING OF SELF At the weekly meeting yesterday of the Wanganui Rotary Club, the alteriuncheon address was delivered oy Mr. James Wylie, of Auckland, his subject, The Responsibility of Rotary," being directed to the problem of human nature and man s understanding of himself and his fellowman. Mr. Wylie spoke on matters which not only concern members of Rotary, but also every member of the community. “The object of companionship,” said Mr. Wylie, “is to get from others the things we do not possess. While it is true that civilisation has developed a vicious circle and everyone has lessened independence through this, yet it remains for the individual to try and do his duty by his neighbour. A message to humanity counts for more than money, and while we cannot reform the other follow, we can at least become more adaptable and with the right mind slant towards others who look lor help and guidance.” Mr. Wylie stated that men have wrong impressions of ownership. “You cannot own a living soul and love never comes in where chained or restricted. We are pitifully narrow trying to mould people to our way;. We have no right to curtail the liberties of others, nor can we. Criticism should be used like the surgeon’s knife, carefully and sparingly.” Mr. Wylie stressed the necessity ot broad vision. He said that ofbmes people have erroneous impressions regarding their fellows, and oftimes the best Rotarian is a quiet humble man. simply doing his duty, making no mark but gaining the respect of his fellows.

“Simplicity belongs to great men. frank in statement and honest in intention,” he said. “They avoid many of the discussions and conflictions which are so futile. They seem to realise that just as one might mix chemicals ignorantly and cause explosions, so it is true that if we mix human chemicals wrongly, the result must be misery. “An organisation in town which desires to function effectively requires to give reasonable attention to the human factor. When such organisation can meet the needs of the people, it will never lack support either tn money or morale. The great need today is that or harmonious blendings tn marriage, business and social life, stripping off the masks of humbug, hypocrisy, and make-believe. It is fine to meet such individuals.”