The remedy for sadness is prayer.
But as sadness broods in selfishness,
and is inclined to rest rather in our own
unhappy thoughts than on God,
the soul turns to prayer with reluctance.
Hence the saddened one must first
turn to God by vocal prayer,
persevering in which that reluctance will be overcome;
and as the sadness subsides, the spirit will
enter anew into the heart of prayer.
The second remedy against sadness is to break out
of it by some external act of kindness or generosity.
For the malady consists in a morbid concentration
upon one's self, and a brooding within one's self
that repels sympathy and kindness,
as being adverse to this melancholy mood,
a mood that can only be cherished in
isolation of spirit.
But let the will make a little effort to be kind
and considerate towards another;
and it is amazing how soon that malignant
charm is broken that held the soul spellbound
to her saddened thoughts and imaginary grievances.
A smile, a kind look, a few gentle words,
a considerate action, though begun with effort,
will suffice to open the soul,
and set the spirit free from its delusion.
William Bernard Ullathorne
Did you know that William Bernard Ullathorne
was one of the great Catholics
in Australia's history?
He became an Archbishop, and wrote several books.
He was opposed to the transport of convicts
to Australia, and he loved social justice.
Read his autobiography online
To cultivate kindness is a great part of
the business of life.
Samuel Johnson.
