Being and Doing – 8 April – Influence
AM I my brother’s keeper?
Gen. iv.9
HOW much may be done, is done, by the brain and heart of one human being in contact with another! We are answerable for incalculable opportunities of good and evil in our daily intercourse with every soul with whom we have to deal; every meeting, every parting, every chance greeting, and every appointed encounter, are occasions open to us for which we are to account. To our children, our servants, our friends, our acquaintances, – to each and all, every day, and all day long. we are distributing that which is best or worst in existence, – influence: with every word, with every look, with every gesture, something is given or withheld of great importance, it may be, to the receiver, inestimable importance to the giver.
F. A. KEMBlE
LET us reflect that the highest path is pointed out by the pure ideal of those who look up to us, and who, if we tread less loftily, may never look so high again. Remembering this, let it suggest one generous motive for walking heedfully amid the defilements of earthly ways.
N. HAWTHORNE
TO love her is a liberal education.
STEELE
oooOOOooo
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 