Being and Doing – 10 October – Bearing Sorrow
Do not cheat thy heart and tell her
‘Grief will pass away,
Hope for fairer times in future,
And forget to-day.’
Tell her if you will that sorrow
Need not come in vain;
Tell her that the lesson taught her
Far outweighs the pain.
Cheat her not with the old comfort
‘Soon she will forget.’
Bitter truth, alas, – but matter
Bid her not ‘Seek other pleasures,
Turn to other things;’
Rather nurse her eager sorrow
Till the captive sings.
Rather bid her go forth bravely,
And the stranger greet;
Not as foe with spear and buckler,
But as dear friends meet;
Bid her with a strong clasp hold her
By her dusky wings,
Listening for the murmured blessing
Sorrow always brings.
A. A. PROCTER
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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 