contentment, and there are many considerations by which the duty may be enforced.
One thing is very evident—that there is no condition in the present world, which is free from trouble!
Let us pitch our tent wherever we may—we shall be sure to find something to annoy us!
And if there is no situation without some inconvenience—had we not better make up our minds to be satisfied with that condition in which we are now placed?
We are too much in the habit of judging by outward appearances.
But things are often very different in reality to what they appear to be.
If we judge according to appearance, we shall be led to regard the most prosperous as the happiest individuals.
But we are assured by universal experience that to be great is one thing, and that to be truly happy is altogether another thing!
Under the glittering robes of the proudest
nobilities—there are hearts pierced with anguish, and wrung with grief!
In splendid palaces there are many broken hearts to be found.
To sit upon thrones may seem to be something very fascinating; but, "uneasy lies the head which wears a crown!"
This is a truth which receives fresh confirmation, from every passing year.
Let us not then, regard those who occupy the high places of the earth, with feelings of envy.
Instead of envying them—it befits us rather to pity them and pray for them!
Reader, learn to distinguish between things that differ; and be well assured that things as they appear outwardly, and as they really are do often differ, and that very substantially!
Such knowledge will tend, under God's
blessing to make you more contented with your present lot, notwithstanding its trials and privations.
It is not unusual to be exposed to things which are grievous and hard to be borne.
This is not some strange thing which is happening to us alone.
Let us lay aside, therefore, all murmurings and complainings—and ever remember that God's arrangements are the wisest and the best!
~John Macduff~
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