In the Bahá’í view the child’s nature is not like so much wax
that can be molded indifferently to any shape according to the
will of the teacher. Nay, each from the first has his own God-given
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character and individuality which can develop to the
best advantage only in a particular way; and that way in each
case is unique. No two people have exactly the same capabilities
and talents, and the true educator will never attempt to
force two natures into the same mold. In fact, he will never
attempt to force any nature into any mold. Rather he will
reverently tend the developing powers of the young nature,
encourage and protect them, and supply the nourishment
and assistance which they need. His work is like that of a gardener
tending different plants. One plant likes the bright sunshine,
another the cool shade; one loves the water’s edge and another
the dry knoll; one thrives best on sandy soil and another on rich
loam. Each must have its needs appropriately supplied, else
its perfections can never be fully revealed. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá
says:—