Why are we never entirely satisfied? Why are we never at absolute peace
or rest? Many are the answers that have been made to this question. The
answer here given by the poet is that so richly is man endowed with
qualities and attributes that if contentment were added to them, he
would be satisfied with what he has, and would not strive for that which
is higher still--the fulfilment of his spiritual cravings.
When God at first made Man,
Having a glass of blessings standing by;
Let us (said He) pour on him all we can:
Let the world's riches, which disperséd lie,
Contract into a span.
So strength first made a way;
Then beauty flow'd, then wisdom, honor, pleasure
When almost all was out, God made a stay,
Perceiving that alone, of all His treasure,
Rest in the bottom lay.
For if I should (said He)
Bestow this jewel also on My creature,
He would adore My gifts instead of Me,
And rest in Nature, not the God of Nature.
So both should losers be.
Yet let him keep the rest,
But keep them with repining restlessness:
Let him be rich and weary, that at least,
If goodness lead him not, yet weariness
May toss him to My breast.
_George Herbert._