Appreciating individuality.
Who is appreciative and many-sided enough to guide the first efforts of genius just coming to consciousness? How many could profitably have advised Hawthorne when his peculiar Rembrandt style was forming? As a race, we Anglo-Saxons are so self-sphered that we lack the power to enter into the individuality of another mind, and give profitable advice for its direction.
Truth told by an enemy.
The truth, bitterly told by an enemy with a vivid power of statement, is a tonic oftentimes too strong for one’s powers of endurance.
WE AND OUR NEIGHBORS.
Immutability of Nature’s laws.
In some constitutions, with some hereditary predispositions, the indiscretions and ignorances of youth leave a fatal, irremediable injury. Though the sin be in the first place one of inexperience and ignorance, it is one that nature never forgives. The evil once done can never be undone; no prayers, no entreaties, no resolutions, can change the consequences of violated law. The brain and nerve force once vitiated by poisonous stimulants become thereafter subtle tempters and traitors, forever lying in wait to deceive, and urging to ruin; and he who is saved is saved so as by fire.
Doing our own work.