Striving to Keep Resolutions Good Even If We Falter, 1905

“Aunt Jennie’s Letter” in the Progressive Farmer and Cotton Plant, January 3, 1905

To-day we extend to you our New Year’s greeting and wish for each of you a happy and prosperous twelve-month. Good resolutions are in order; but some one has said that they are useless. Now I beg to differ with that person, for they are based on good impulses, even if not always steadfastly founded. Every aspiration to better things is a step toward perfection. Even if it is taken falteringly and we find ourselves falling because of human weakness, it does not or ought not to prevent our trying again. Did you ever know a person who succeeded in anything worth while who simply gave up the job and sat content with folded hands? And did you ever know a person who was an entire failure who always tried to succeed, provided his was a worthy motive?

We know that the year will not pass without its trials. All the years that are now numbered with the things that were, have taught us this fact; but have trials not added to strength and to knowledge of how to face facts bravely? Do we not know on Whom to call when earthly strength fails us, and all seems dark and we cannot find the way to the light?

And so when prosperity has blinded us to the woes of our fellow beings. The poor envy the rich; but they do not know how the rich long for the genuine heart-happiness known only to those of moderate means. A little is so much to the poor and much is so little to the rich. A pathetic little picture was that of the little boy standing surrounded by innumerable toys, alone, an only child of wealthy parents: his little hands empty and indescrible longing depicted on his beautiful face, a craving for mutual appreciation of his beautiful gifts. No mother’s gentle presence, no father’s smile, no brother’s or sister’s—alone in that elegantly furnished room with only those inanimate toys. Another picture seen recently was of several children happy in the possession of a few treasures sent them by that mysterious old Saint whom they loved. Their presents were few, but you would smile unconsciously as you contemplated the pleasure they had afforded them.

This year promises to be the most successful we have known in the Social Chat corner; for many have joined us who promise to contribute regularly, and we are here to talk, even if we do say silly things occasionally. You remember the old adage, “A little nonsense now and then is relished by the wisest men.” All of us would like a letter from “Nettie Cross.” Her bright, breezy contributes were always enjoyed. Where are you, Nettie? Jennie Acton has not let us hear from her in quite a while. Now I happened to think of these two who have helped us smile; but I want each of you to know that we would be delighted to have a letter from you if you have ever written. And if you have not written, this is an invitation for you to do so at once. “The more the merrier,” you know, and our roll book is not yet full.

So many notes of encouragement have reached us recently that I take this opportunity to thank the writers of them all.

            --Aunt Jennie