Tag: time

First Fig (Edna St. Vincent Millay)

On By Oby BallingerIn Wisdom from OthersLeave a comment

When I was in high school English class, I did a research project on Edna St. Vincent Millay. I don’t remember a lot about her now, other than that she was reclusive, didn’t care about fitting into social norms, and had a tragically short life. Her poetry is short and punchy, to the point. I memorized these verses, and they come to mind when I have said yes to too many worthy projects, but still find energy and purpose in them all.

My candle burns at both ends;
    It will not last the night;
But ah, my foes, and oh, my friends—
    It gives a lovely light!

Edna St. Vincent Millay

“Be swift to love” (Henri-Frederic Amiel)

On By Oby BallingerIn Wisdom from Others1 Comment

With the clocks turning ahead one hour overnight for Daylight Savings Time, I’ve been meditating a bit on time, and the brevity of our lives. Many of us can get bent out of shape with the removal of one hour for sleep (or sermon prep), and I expect to feel tomorrow morning the effects of losing that one hour. But isn’t every hour precious, and every moment a chance to make choices for greater grace, rest, joy and power? For years, I’ve carried in my imagination a few words by the Swiss moral philosopher Henri-Frédéric Amiel. I’ve occasionally heard it used as a benediction, and a friend used it as his email footer for a time. I’ve now got it taped on the wall in front of my desk at work. Take whatever inspiration you need now from these simple and clear words.

“Life is short. We don’t have much time to gladden the hearts of those who walk this way with us. So, be swift to love and make haste to be kind.”

Henri-Frédéric Amiel