| Finding the Way |
Chapter 15 |
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Our helping of others must not be too insistent. We must respect the individuality of those to whom we would be friends. There is danger that even love will be officious sometimes, and reveal its eagerness in ways which will take away much of its value. People do not like to be helped in a conscious or professional way. The help must be the help of love itself, and must be given simply, quietly, gently, unostentatiously. It must never intermeddle. When we stand by one who is in sorrow, the fewer words we speak the better. There is altogether too much talking in many cases by those who are sincerely eager to help. The best service we can give to those who are in grief is to lead them into the presence of Christ and leave them there alone with Him.
A strong, quiet face, telling of peace and joy in the heart, is in itself a benediction. On the other hand, a gloomy and discouraged face hurts everyone who looks upon it, leaves a shadow upon other lives, and makes them a little less fit for the struggles, the task, and the duties before them.
If we are wise, we will avoid all display in efforts to please others. We will simply seek to be our natural selves, with sincere love, with patience, thoughtfulness, and kindliness in our spirits. We will not talk about it – talking about it spoils everything. The best good is done always when we wist not that we are doing good. The greatest help is given to others when they wist not that they are being helped.
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