Ellen G. White — Messenger to the Remnant

Discipline in the White Home

Although heavily burdened with many problems, the busy mother did not neglect the training of her children. Home discipline was firm, but administered with understanding kindness and love. She endeavored to avoid crises, and sought constantly to lead the minds of the boys in such a way as to strengthen character and develop will power. Suitable and simple rewards encouraged obedience and good behavior. The inducements outside the home were often offset by innocent pleasures in the home. Very seldom was corporal punishment administered, and then only after a quiet talk and earnest prayer. EGWMR 104.14

Of course problems arose. The White boys were not model children. But issues were dealt with promptly and with decision. Their mother testified: EGWMR 104.15

“I never allowed my children to think that they could plague me in their childhood. Never did I allow myself to say a harsh word... When my spirit was stirred, or when I felt anything like being provoked, I would say, ‘Children, we shall let this rest now; we shall not say anything more about it now. Before you retire, we shall talk it all over.’ Having all this time to reflect, by evening they had cooled off, and I could handle them very nicely.”—Manuscript 82, 1901. EGWMR 104.16

The frequent absence of one or both of the parents tended to complicate the task of rearing the children. While on her journeys the mother kept in close touch with them by frequent letters. Her thoughts and her prayers were often concerned with the growing boys at home. EGWMR 104.17