Part 10 (1/2)

LESSON x.x.xIII

SELF-RELIANCE

Of all the elements of success none is more vital than self-reliance,--a determination to be one's own helper, and not to look to others for support. It is the secret of all individual growth and vigor, the master-key that unlocks all difficulties in every profession or calling. ”Help yourself, and Heaven will help you,” should be the motto of every man who would make himself useful in the world. He who begins with crutches will generally end with crutches. Help from within always strengthens, but help from without invariably enfeebles.

It is said that a lobster, when left high and dry among the rocks, has not instinct and energy enough to work his way back to the sea, but waits for the sea to come to him. If it does not come, he remains where he is and dies, although the slightest effort would enable him to reach the waves. The world is full of human lobsters,--men stranded on the rocks of business, who, instead of putting forth their energy, are waiting for some grand billow of good fortune to set them afloat.

There are many young men, who, instead of carrying their own burdens, are always dreaming of some Hercules, in the shape of a rich uncle, or some other benevolent relative, coming to give them a ”lift.” In ninety-nine cases out of a hundred, pecuniary help to a beginner is not a blessing, but a calamity. Under the appearance of aiding, it weakens its victims, and keeps them in perpetual slavery and degradation.

Let every young man have faith in himself, and take an earnest hold of life, scorning all props and b.u.t.tresses, all crutches and life-preservers. Instead of wielding the rusted swords of valorous forefathers, let him forge his own weapons; and, mindful of the Providence over him, let him fight his own battles with his own good lance.

SELECTION XIII

PRAYER IN BATTLE

Father, I call to Thee.

Roaring enshrouds me, the din of the battle, Round me like lightning the leaping shots rattle.

Leader of battles, I call to Thee.

Father, Thou lead me.

Father, Thou lead me.

Lead me to victory, lead me to death; Lord, at Thy pleasure I offer my breath.

Lord, as Thou wilt, so lead me.

G.o.d, I acknowledge Thee.

G.o.d, I acknowledge Thee.

So when the thunders of battle are breaking, As when the leaves of the autumn are shaking, Fountain of grace, I acknowledge Thee.

Father, Thou bless me.

Father, Thou bless me.

Into Thine hand I my being resign; Thou didst bestow it--to take it be Thine.

Living and dying, O bless me.

Father, I honor Thee.

Father, I honor Thee.

Not for earth's riches unsheath we the sword; 'Tis our hearts we protect; 'tis Thy temples, O Lord; So railing or conquering, I honor Thee.

To Thee, G.o.d, I yield me.

To thee, G.o.d, I yield me.