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Ordinary People

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Review and Herald Publishing Association · Washington, D. C. · Apr 27, 1905

FromReview and Herald, Vol. 82, No. 17.

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Ordinary People

FIRST of all, if you feel that you are ordinary, thank God that you are not extraordinary. I am tired and sick and bored almost to death with extraordinary people. They take all their time to tell you how very extraordinary they really are. You know as well as I do, my brother and sister, that the most of the useful work of the world is done by unpretentious people who toil right on—by people who do not get much approval, and no one seems to say, “That is well done.” Phenomena are of but little use. Things that are exceptional can not be depended on. Better trust the smallest planet that swings on its orbit, than ten comets shooting this way and that, imperiling the longevity of worlds attending to their own business. For steady illumination better is a lamp than a rocket. Then, if you feel that you are ordinary, remember that your position invites the less attack.—Dr. Talmage.