Cfje ^ububon Societies; 



SCHOOL DEPARTMENT 



Edited by ALICE HALL WALTER 



Address all communications relative to the work of this depart- 

 ment to the Editor, 67 Oriole Avenue, Providence, R. I. 



A YEAR OF RECONSTRUCTION 



The year 1919 is destined to go down in history as a period of peaceful 

 reconstruction. That, at least, is the hope of the world. Never before have 

 like conditions confronted the world. Never before has the world been as 

 ready to discuss disputed conditions so sanely and thoughtfully. It is a 

 year opening with high aspirations, ideals of far-reaching influence, and, best 

 of all, a year betokening a new era of sympathy and brotherhood. 



It would seem as if every living being must respond to the mighty move- 

 ment of National hfe, now making itself felt literally throughout the earth. 

 The only true response to such a stupendous stimulus must show in action. 

 No longer will passive acceptance or a negative attitude of silence be welcome 

 in a society throbbing with a universal heartbeat. To bring about the era 

 of real peace and common prosperity to which each one of us would attain, 

 but which can only be assured through the cooperation of everyone, is a task 

 at once individual and collective. 



Reconstruction is the keynote of the conception of world-security upon 

 which to-day hangs the fate of nations, a reconstruction such as no person, 

 however great in authority or position, has ever deemed possible of accomplish- 

 ment until now. Even now, at the dawn of a New Year and a new era, this 

 radiant goal may only be reached by the unified, harmonious effort of all. 

 Statesmen may chart the way, governments may pave the course, but the 

 goal will be won by individual runners, and only those will attain who fall 

 into line on this blood-bought path, each step of which must be cleared of 

 dangerous obstructions by the advancing hosts. 



Everywhere the effect of this great enterprise is felt. Homes, churches, 

 business and educational institutions, as well as every form of artistic and 

 industrial undertaking are reacting to this supreme influence of beneficent 

 reconstruction. 



Again and again, we should say to ourselves: "Never let prejudice, ignor- 

 ance, or indifference come between me and the truth." Looking ahead, the 

 Audubon Society sees, as ever, a long, long vista of betterment in its work, 

 and it is becoming a broadening vista, with the end more plainly in sight. 

 Here, as elsewhere, reconstruction is needed, ready hands and keen brains. 

 When education shall have accomplished what is now only insecurely held by 



(S8) 



