As mentoring my own children was at the forefront of my mind while I read Laddie, I would like to focus briefly on the mentoring styles of several of the adults in Little Sister’s life. Mr. and Mrs. Stanton and Laddie all had a profound effect on Little Sister’s education.
Mr. Stanton had a hunger for knowledge and a desire to use that knowledge for the good of his family, community, and nation. He was always in the process of educating himself; because of that, he inspired both his wife and children to seek education for themselves. As the children began to attend the local school, he encouraged memorization of their lessons by a family showcase each evening. It was during these events that Little Sister memorized poems, stories, and songs that gave her the words she needed to express her thoughts about the world. Because of the natural inspiration provided by Mr. Stanton, Little Sister’s early education was nearly effortless.
Mrs. Stanton was no less a mentor to Little Sister than her husband, although her mentoring spoke of a different focus. She inspired in her children respect and hospitality for people from all walks of life. When the wealthy Pryors moved in at the neighboring house, Mrs. Stanton was quick to offer a welcoming visit; she was just as comfortable chatting in her own home with an ostracized neighbor. She also instilled in her children the importance of knowing and following scripture. Her schedule on Saturday evening prepared her home and her family for the next day’s focus on God and Christian hospitality. The house and children were scrubbed clean and scriptures were memorized. While some of this may be considered a vain effort, it showed the family how important Sunday was by placing extra importance on the preparation for it. Because of Mrs. Stanton’s emphasis on Christian love and diligence in providing both religious instruction and inspiration, her children grew to be well-respected, successful adults.
Laddie, in many ways, mentored his Little Sister by providing for her a hero to look up to. Little Sister remembered often that Laddie was the first to love her. He had a deep understanding of human nature that helped him to know exactly what Little Sister needed and when she needed it. He also placed a lot of trust in her to keep his secrets and help him when he needed it. This trust had a very positive effect on Little Sister. Laddie’s love mentored Little Sister’s heart just as their father’s intellect inspired her mind and their mother’s faith nourished her soul.
“We are not going at children in a way to gain and hold their interest and make them love their work. There must be a better way of teaching…” Mr. Stanton already had the answer to his quandry and implemented it with Little Sister, and she grew in love, grace, and intellect. My hope is that I inspire my children to grow like Little Sister and that they fulfill the mission the Lord has placed on their lives.
Thank you, Mrs. Stratton Porter, for a lovely story and convicting inspiration.
Sincerely,
Barbie
Beautifully articulated, Barbie!