Self-Denial

In Short

Self-Denial; or, Alice Wood, and Her Missionary Society is a moralistic tale aimed at children, particularly those involved in Sunday school activities. It follows a group of schoolgirls led by Alice Wood, who, inspired by a missionary's speech, decide to form a society dedicated to saving money for missionary work. Through self-denial and various acts of frugality, the girls learn the value of sacrifice and compassion, ultimately contributing to a greater cause. The story emphasizes the impact of individual efforts in making a collective difference, encouraging young readers to consider their own abilities to help others.

The Story

The story begins in a quaint village school, where Alice Wood, a beloved and compassionate girl, gathers her classmates after school. Inspired by a recent missionary meeting, Alice proposes forming a society to save money for missionary work. She explains the plight of millions around the world who have never heard of God or the Bible, and how even children can contribute to spreading the word of God by denying themselves small pleasures.

Alice's plan involves forming a sewing society to make items for sale, with the proceeds going toward missionary efforts. She also suggests that each girl think of ways to save money, such as forgoing candy from the local shop or being more careful with school supplies. The girls are enthusiastic, and each makes a pledge to save a certain amount, no matter how small.

The next day, Alice records the girls' pledges, emphasizing that even the smallest contribution is valuable. She reads the story of the widow's mite to illustrate this point, and the girls are inspired to do their best. Each girl shares her plan for saving money, from milking a cow for a neighbor to breaking a bad habit for a reward.

As the girls begin their mission, they face challenges, particularly from Mother Grimes, the candy shop owner, who is upset by their decision to stop buying candy. The girls remain resolute, even when Mother Grimes tries to tempt them with new treats. Their determination leads Mother Grimes to eventually move her shop elsewhere.

The sewing society thrives, and the girls become increasingly interested in missionary work as they read about it during their meetings. The story concludes with a reflection on the potential impact of their efforts, comparing it to the ripples caused by a pebble dropped in water. The girls are encouraged to continue their self-denial and to inspire others to join in their mission, with the promise that their actions, no matter how small, can have a profound effect on the world.

How It Unfolds

Alice's Inspiration: Alice Wood, inspired by a missionary's speech, gathers her classmates after school to propose forming a society to save money for missionary work.

Forming the Society: Alice explains her plan, which includes forming a sewing society to make items for sale and encouraging each girl to find ways to save money.

Pledges and Plans: The next day, Alice records the girls' pledges, emphasizing that even small contributions are valuable. Each girl shares her plan for saving money, from forgoing candy to earning rewards for good behavior.

Challenges and Determination: The girls face challenges, particularly from Mother Grimes, the candy shop owner, who is upset by their decision to stop buying candy. Despite temptations, the girls remain resolute in their mission.

The Sewing Society Thrives: The sewing society becomes a success, and the girls grow more interested in missionary work as they read about it during their meetings.

Impact and Reflection: The story concludes with a reflection on the potential impact of the girls' efforts, comparing it to the ripples caused by a pebble dropped in water. The girls are encouraged to continue their self-denial and to inspire others to join in their mission.

The People

Alice Wood: The protagonist and leader of the missionary society, Alice is compassionate, resourceful, and determined. She inspires her classmates to join her in saving money for missionary work, demonstrating the power of individual initiative and self-denial.

The Schoolgirls: Alice's classmates, each with their own unique personalities and contributions, form the core of the missionary society. They range from those who save a penny a day to those who earn money through various tasks, all united by a common goal.

Mother Grimes: The owner of the local candy shop, Mother Grimes represents the temptation and challenges the girls face in their mission. Her attempts to lure the girls back to buying candy highlight the girls' determination and commitment to their cause.

In Its Own Voice

"Girls," said she, "last night I went to the missionary meeting, and some of you were there too. We heard a missionary speak, who has just come back from India, and he told us of the millions of poor degraded and ignorant people there, who have never heard of God or the Bible, and who worship idol gods of wood and stone, and sacrifice their children and themselves to these dumb idols;"

This passage highlights Alice's inspiration and the motivation behind forming the missionary society, emphasizing the global need for missionary work.

"I think, girls, if we all keep the resolutions we have formed, that by only saving the money that we should spend in other ways, and giving it to the society, we can pledge ourselves to give altogether fifty dollars a year;"

Alice's calculation of the potential impact of their savings underscores the collective power of individual efforts.

"Children, is it not worth while to try and see if you cannot yourselves do something, and induce others to join you, and see how much money you can save, and make in the coming year?"

This call to action encourages young readers to consider their own abilities to contribute to a greater cause.

What It's Really About

Self-Denial is fundamentally about the power of individual sacrifice and collective action in making a positive impact on the world. It teaches children the value of self-denial, compassion, and the importance of contributing to a greater cause, even in small ways. The story emphasizes that every act of kindness and sacrifice, no matter how modest, can have far-reaching effects, much like the ripples caused by a pebble dropped in water. It also highlights the importance of perseverance in the face of challenges and the rewards of staying true to one's principles.

Why Read It Today

Self-Denial offers a timeless message about the value of self-sacrifice and compassion, making it relevant for young readers today. The story's emphasis on collective action and the impact of individual efforts can inspire children to consider how they can contribute to their communities and the world at large. While the language and setting may feel dated, the underlying themes of kindness, perseverance, and the importance of helping others remain universally appealing.

The book is particularly well-suited for children involved in Sunday school or other religious education programs, as it aligns with Christian values and encourages charitable giving. However, its message of selflessness and community service can resonate with readers of any background. The story's simplicity and focus on everyday actions make it accessible and relatable, providing a clear and inspiring example of how small changes can lead to significant outcomes.

Readers should be aware that the book reflects the attitudes and language of its time, including references to "heathen" peoples and a focus on Christian missionary work. While these aspects may require context for modern readers, they also offer an opportunity to discuss historical perspectives and the evolution of cultural understanding. Despite its length and occasional didactic tone, Self-Denial remains a heartfelt and uplifting read that can encourage children to think beyond themselves and consider the needs of others.