APRIL TWENTY-EIGHTH
Reading edition
Charles Cotton born 1630.
James Monroe, Virginia, fifth President United States, born 1758.
Anthony Ashley, Earl of Shaftesbury, born 1801.
During a long life I have proved that not one kind word ever spoken, not one kind deed ever done, but sooner or later returns to bless the giver, and becomes a chain, binding men with golden bands to the throne of God.
—Earl of Shaftesbury.
There's many a time when the bitterest thing Is said without reason, and God knows The courage it takes to suffer the sting, By hiding the wounds that the heart shows. There's many a sob we bravely keep down For the sake of old times revered so, There's many a head with thorns for a crown Where kisses would soon make the heart glow. —Edwin Leibfreed.
So shalt thou know wisdom to be unto thy soul; If thou hast found it, then shall there be a reward, And thy hope shall not be cut off. —Proverbs 24. 14.
My Father, if I am to-day without happiness, may I go in search of it. Help me to remember that the will thou hast given me to overcome evil with good I may use to overcome misery with happiness. Make me careful that I may not be trapped by selfishness as I look for joy. May I delight in the sweet sensations that are felt in having consideration for others, and may I make kindness a daily habit. Amen.