When in School

An increasing army of students in school who are winning this game, tell us how they do it. Here is their secret:

When in study period, say: “God I have just forty precious minutes. Help my wavering thoughts to concentrate so that I may not waste a moment. Show me what is worth remembering in this first paragraph”—then read the lesson to God, instead of reading it to yourself.

When going to recitation, whisper: “Make my mind clear, so that I will be able to recall all I Have studied. Take away fear.”

When rising to recite before a group say: “God speak through my lips.”

When taking an examination, say all during the hour, “Father, keep my mind clear, and help me to remember all that I have learned. How shall we answer this next question?” Visualize Him looking over your shoulder every minute you are writing. God will not tell you what you have never studied but He does sharpen your memory and take away your stage fright when you ask Him. Have you not discovered that when you pray about some forgotten name it often flashes into your memory?

To be sure, this prevents us from being dishonest or cheating, for if we are not honest we cannot expect His help. But that is a good reason for playing the game with minutes. Character is a hundred times more valuable than knowledge or high grades.

To be popular with the other students, acquire the habit of breathing a momentary prayer for each student you meet, and while you are in conversation with him. Some instinct tells him you are interested in his welfare and he likes you for it.