Being and Doing – 27 May – Unkind Words

FOR IT strikes me that of all human dealings, satire is the very lowest, and most mean and common.   It is the equivalent in words for what bullying is in deeds; and no more bespeaks a clever man than the other does a brave one.   These two wretched tricks exalt a fool in his own low esteem, but never in his neighbour’s, for the deep common-sense nature tells that no man of a genial heart, or of any spread of mind, can take pride in either.   And though a good man may commit the one fault or the other, now and then by way of outlet, he is sure to have compunctions soon, and to scorn himself more than the sufferer.

BLACKMORE

ANOTHER side of public life is our life in society.   After all, the best way in which we may there, in heart and mind, rise with Christ, is by the thoughtful watchfulness of love.   Thoughtlessness of heart slides into insensibility of heart, and if encouraged in youth, makes the cruel man or woman of after life.   How often do we ask ourselves before we speak whether our speech will do wrong or give unnecessary pain?    We are fond sometimes of speaking roughly, or delight in the cleverness which makes another wince.   It is a pride and pleasure which is base;  for it is unhuman, and is as far removed from the sweetness and gentleness of Christ as heaven is from hell.

STOPFORD BROOKE

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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.