Being and Doing – 8 March – Evil of Melancholy
NEVER give way to melancholy; resist it steadily, for the habit will encroach. I once gave a lady two and twenty receipts against melancholy; one was a bright fire; another, to remember all the pleasant things said to her; another, to keep a box of sugar-plums on the chimney-piece, and a kettle simmering on the hob. I thought this mere trifling at the moment, but have in after life discovered how true it is that these little pleasures often banish melancholy better than higher and more exalted objects; and that no means ought to be thought too trifling which can oppose it, either in ourselves or in others.
SIDNEY SMITH
WE should not sadden the harmless mirth of others by suffering our own melancholy to be seen; and this species of exertion is like virtue, its own reward; for the good spirits which are at first simulated become at length real.
THOMAS SCOTT
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These quotes are from ‘Being and Doing’ A selection of helpful thoughts from various authors arranged for daily reading.
Collected by Constance M Whishaw and first published in 1908 for members of the Being and Doing Guild whose object is to do all they can for the relief of suffering and misery.
Most of the writers are 19th Century Christians from Britain and Europe who were committed to living their faith through deeds as well as words – Being AND Doing.
For many years these words have kept me company and encouraged me on the journey of faith. I hope they will encourage others also.
Suffolk Vicar 