The Daughter at School

By Rev. John Todd, D.D.

Copyright 1857

One hundred and fifty-five years ago, parents were preparing to send their children off to college, worrying, like parents of today, how constructive they will be with their time, how respectful of themselves and others, and whether their child is ready to leave the safety and comfort of home.  

At home our children may be “screened from the cold world and its vices”, yet obviously they can’t remain children forever.  

Reverend Todd gives many pieces of advice to the young woman preparing to go away to school.  Much of this advice would be wise to give today.  College is a time to “shake off old habits and form new ones”.  Remain diligent in your studies.  Learn something new each day.  Be friendly toward others.  Read your Bible.

I found one piece of wisdom that I know my daughter will not follow while she’s away at school. 

“Here let me advise you, in health you should never indulge in a day-time nap.  If you find by persisting in early rising you are not well rested, that your strength is gone before the day goes, retire earlier and earlier, till you find you have sufficient sleep.”

Would any modern college student follow this counsel?  None that I know would!

The author writes a thought provoking phrase.  In all our years spent caring for and instructing a daughter at home what we are actually doing is “training an angel for eternity”.  I, for one, am so pleased to know the “angels” my daughters are becoming as they are leaving home!