Being and Doing – 1 October – Reserve

THE other thing that represses the utterances of love, is the characteristic shyness of the Anglo-Saxon blood.   Oddly enough, a race born of two demonstrative, outspoken nations – the German and the French – has an habitual reserve which is like neither.   There is a powerlessness of utterance in our blood that we should fight against, and struggle outward towards expression.   We can educate ourselves to it, if we know and feel the necessity;  we can make it a Christian duty, not only to love, but to be loving – not only to be true friends, but to show ourselves friendly.   We can make ourselves say the kind things that rise in our hearts and tremble on our lips do the gentle and helpful deeds which we long to do and shrink back from;  and, little by little, it will grow easier the love spoken will bring back the answer of love the kind deed will bring back a kind deed in return.

Mrs. H. B. STOWE

A FEW more smiles of silent sympathy, a few more tender words, a little more restraint on temper, may make all the difference between happiness and half happiness to those I live with.

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.