A Day at a Time · Chapter
A Khaki Virtue explained
This chapter celebrates cheerfulness as a virtue exemplified by soldiers in wartime, arguing that it is a sign of underlying faith in God's providence and a blessing to both oneself and others.
What happens
This chapter celebrates cheerfulness as a virtue exemplified by soldiers in wartime, arguing that it is a sign of underlying faith in God's providence and a blessing to both oneself and others. The author encourages readers to adopt this cheerful disposition, linking it to the Christian faith and the example of Jesus.
Themes in this chapter
Cheerfulness and Resilience
The entire chapter is dedicated to cheerfulness as a virtue, especially in the face of war and hardship, and its power to bless both the individual and others.
Faith and Trust in God
Cheerfulness is presented as an expression of faith in God's Fatherhood and good Providence, trusting that He controls all and makes no mistakes.
Hope and Optimism
The chapter emphasizes the hopeful and cheery way of facing life's rebuffs, linking it to the belief that God is in His Heaven and cares for all.
Characters to notice
- Unknown
The narrator reflects on the virtue of cheerfulness observed in soldiers and urges readers to emulate it.
- Jesus Christ
Referenced as the one who brings near the faith in God's Fatherhood and Love, which underlies cheerfulness.
- R. L. Stevenson
His prayer is quoted at the end of the chapter, asking for cheerfulness and strength in daily duties.
- John Bunyan
Mentioned in reference to the pilgrim Christian hearing a man singing as he goes through the valley.
Key passages
“God loveth a cheerful giver.”
God delights in those who give with a joyful heart.
The chapter's epigraph from 2 Corinthians 9:7 sets the theme of cheerfulness as a divine virtue.
“It was only a glad Good Morning As she passed along the way, But it spread the morning's glory Over the livelong day.”
A simple cheerful greeting can brighten someone's entire day.
Illustrates the ripple effect of cheerfulness on others.
“For cheerfulness, like mercy, is twice blessed. It blesseth him that has, and him that sees!”
Cheerfulness benefits both the person who possesses it and those who witness it.
Emphasizes the dual blessing of cheerfulness, echoing Shakespeare's 'mercy' quote.