Children Quote by Orison Swett Marden
“Many mothers make the mistake of forever looking for the bad in the child, trying to . . . uproot and drive it out. This is like trying to eject the darkness from a room without opening the shutters and letting in the light. As John Newton said, 'I cannot sweep the darkness out, but I can shine it out.'”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Triumph of the Human Spirit, 1910
Focusing only on a child's flaws ignores the need for nurturing and illumination, which is essential for growth.
In simple terms: Fixating on negatives blocks positive development.
Key Takeaway
Balance critique with encouragement.
Themes
parenting
growth
balance
Mood
reflective
hopeful
Type
advice
inspirational
When to use this quote
- family counseling
- education
- child development
- parent‑child relationships
Key Concepts
psychology
development
light metaphor
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you illuminate a child's strengths?
- What light can you bring into a difficult situation?
A Different Perspective
Ignoring strengths may reinforce negativity and hinder progress.
