Andrew Melville born 1545.
Richard Henry Dana, Jr., born 1815.
Maria Mitchell born 1818.
Am I wrong to be always so happy? This world is full of grief;
Yet there is laughter of sunshine, to see the crisp green on the leaf,
Daylight is ringing with song-birds, and brooklets are crooning at night;
And why should I make a shadow when God makes all so bright?
Earth may be wicked and weary, yet cannot I help being glad!
There is sunshine without and within me, and how should I mope or be sad?
God would not flood me with blessings, meaning me only to pine
Amid all the bounties and beauties he pours upon me and mine;
Therefore I will be grateful, and therefore will I rejoice;
My heart is singing within me; sing on, O heart and voice.
--Walter C. Smith.
Rejoice always.
--1 Thessalonians 5. 16.
Gracious Father, my soul floods with joy for the blessings of life.
May it be my privilege to be happy in them. Help me not to ask thee
for anything which will cause loss to another; may I not delight in a
lonely view, but as I see thy glory bring others to the vision also.
Amen.