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ANALOGY

Helen Twining

The thirst for knowledge is a motivating force within each of us,
which when presented with opportunity and developed carefully can
carry us over the sea of life with more appreciation and knowledge
of the universe.

From its origin high in the mountain, a tiny stream flows swiftly
over the rocks and rills in a narrow path as it heads for the sea. So our
minds are like the stream when first we begin to enter into new adven-
tures of learning. Hastily, we rush through our readings and studies,
not stopping to consider our subjects more deeply. Too often we make
false judgments and let ourselves be led into prejudices because we
think along certain narrow ideas only.

Nourished by the rain, a stream may grow into a brook which
flows at a more gentle pace through grassy meadows and shady woods,
often resting in a quiet spot as a pool. Having tasted these springs of
learning, our minds, having also rested, begin to settle down in order
to give more thought to our subject. In a contemplative mood we
study the deeper significance of the ideas which we have gathered.

When a pebble is tossed into this pool, the splash creates a ring
of circles which spread out further and further around the object.
Each new idea which is dropped into our pool of knowledge gives mo-
tion to succeeding ones, broadening our outlook 011 life.

Brooks from pools go on to become rivers, three types which lllay
be compared to our levels of learning. Young rivers generally have
numerous falls and rapids that furnish abundant water power; how-
ever, since they flow through narrow valleys, they are perfect erosive
agents. Having acquired much knowledge, the young scholar has
within him the potentiality of becoming a prominent member of his
business and a useful citizen in his community. In some unfortunate
situations those who have the education do more harm than good
when they selfishly wish to gain all for their own desires, without
thought of using their knowledge to help others.

Mature rivers follow a broader course through wider valleys. In-
tellectual and social maturity brings with it a broader understanding
of people and their problems. More allowances are made for the less
fortunate, those of different backgrounds, and those with less educa-
tion. These mature rivers often have tributaries which flow into the

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