Character and Conduct – 30 October – Gaining or Losing Ground
GAINING or losing all the time is our condition, morally and spiritually. We cannot stand utterly still. If we are not improving we are losing ground. Outside forces compel that, in addition to the forces that are working within. We are pressing forward and being helped in that direction, or we are being pressed backward and are yielding to that pressure. Let us not deceive ourselves with the idea that even though we are making no progress we are at least holding our own. We can no more stand still than time can.
WHOSE high endeavours are an inward light,
That makes the path before him always bright.
And through the heat of conflict, keeps the law
In calmness made, and sees what he foresaw.
Who, not content that former worth stand fast,
Looks forward persevering to the last,
From well to better, daily self-surpassed.
The Happy Warrior, WORDSWORTH
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These quotes are from ‘Character and Conduct’ A selection of helpful thoughts from various authors arranged for daily reading.
Collected by Constance M Whishaw and first published in 1905 as a follow up to her volume of Daily Readings for members of the Being and Doing Guild who asked for an additional volume
In her preface Whishaw writes:
‘This collection of noble thoughts expressed by men and women of past and present ages who have endeavoured to leave the world a little better than they found it.’
It is my hope in publishing them here readers may be inspired to imitate the example of the authors.
Suffolk Vicar 