Peter was a little boy who was much pampered by his mother and usually got his way by crying.

Herbert was in the same class in school, but his strict mother insisted that he obey at once and that he do chores around the home. He always washed and dried the dishes.

I had them both in my swimming classes. When Peter left home his mother cautioned, "Please don't drown, Peter, you are the only thing I have," while Herb's mother said, "You do exactly what you are told to do."

Peter, in fear, would never let go of the brass pipe at the side of the pool. In three months time he made little progress in the water.

Herbert obeyed at once and triumphed so quickly that twenty minutes after he entered the pool for the first time he had completed each step from the 'Jelly Fish Float' through the 'Butterfly Kick' and could swim one length of the pool though he had never been swimming before.

It was easy for him to obey each instruction for he was taught to trust the teacher and expected that obediency was right.

Children, who learn how to obey their elders, parents and teachers, are equipped for happier and more successful experiences.

This is a true story, as well as a parable, and though I've lost track of Peter, I know that Herb progressed steadily through the years.

All citizens have an influence toward correction, direction and friendship of children. We are often unconcerned or irresponsible in our treatment of children who pass us by on the road of life and too often we rebel at correction and disobey the law with pride.