TALK not of wasted affection, affection never was wasted ;

If it enrich not the heart of another, its waters returning

Back to their springs, like the rain, shall fill them full of refreshment ;

That which the fountain sends forth returns again to the fountain.

Patience; accomplish thy labour; accomplish thy work of affection!

Sorrow and silence are strong, and patient endurance is Godlike.

Therefore accomplish thy labour of love, till the heart is made Godlike,

Purified, strengthened, perfected, and rendered more worthy of Heaven.

SAY not, ’twas all in vain,

The anguish and the darkness and the strife;

Love thrown upon the waters comes again

In quenchless yearnings for a nobler life.

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.