M. E. STEWARD by M. E. Steward

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Sep 2, 1909

M. E. STEWARD

By M. E. Steward

From the Border-Land

M. E. STEWARD

SEVENTY-SIX years of age,—is not the writer in the border-land? Long vistas of the past bring many regretful memories, in fact, “nothing but cause of discouragement.” The present has its interests, with the sweet assurance of the forgiveness of sins, and a sense of the tender love and care of God; while the future stretches away, an expanse of limitless glory! Matt. 24: 13. It is not a lamentable thing to live in the “border-land.”

Growing Old

There are different pathways leading down the decline of life. One is in the sunshine, enlivened by flowers and the songs of birds. Those who walk upon this path are bright, loving, and lovable. There are other tracks over the “down-hill of life.” They lie in shadow, and those who take them are torn with thorns, and fall over stumbling-blocks, which, many times, their own hands have placed there; they are gloomy, selfish, and disagreeable.

Of the latter class was feeble, old Mr. Ames. He had been welcomed to a good home, free of charge, in the family of Mr. Brown, a man in comfortable circumstances. From the first, perfect freedom was given him; he might work or not, as he chose. Every one treated him with the utmost kindness, while the children were never allowed to be disrespectful, though the old man was sometimes quite trying and unreasonable toward them. Especially in times of illness, everything possible was done for the comfort of the afflicted one.

Yet Mr. Ames was not appreciative and thankful; indeed, he came to act as if everything and everybody was at his disposal. His habits and plans were never to be interfered with. Naturally very selfish and set in his ways, this piteously weak old soul became still more jealous, exacting, and morose. Through it all, the wonderful patience of the family failed not.

This true story (except the names) was a case of “the ruling passion strong” in old age. It is a warning to the young to control unlovely traits of character, before they become fixed and unmanageable. It is an appeal to all ages to surrender themselves to Him with whom “all things are possible,” that selfishness may be eradicated, and the heart filled with the sweetness of the Holy Spirit. To grow old destitute of the grace of God is surely a thing not to be desired.

Growing Old Gracefully

While Mr. Ames was with Mr. Brown, a dear, quiet old lady came into the same neighborhood to spend the winter with her granddaughter. Her face was always cheery. There was something about her that invited confidence, and made one feel like sitting at her feet, to be befriended and guided in perplexities. One of the family said that she brought more sunshine into the home than any one else did.

Speaking to her of this remark, she said she had known old people who were so exacting and faultfinding that they cast a shadow wherever they were, and she was trying to be different. While unpretentious, she was affable, winning, and beloved by all. Soon after this old lady returned home, her sweet life ended, but its fragrance will ever remain.

The feebleness of age is inclined to cling to some young or stronger arm. There is strength and tender rest for the worn spirit, safely folded in the loving Father’s arms. This blessed place of refuge is easy to find; it is simply committing all we are, with every care and interest, to God, and then going about doing his will, relying on his promises.

Old persons long for love and sympathy. At the same time they are inclined to be sensitive; they are often unhappy if attentions which might be properly expected are not received; it may be their advice is disregarded. It has been said by one who knows, that “God wants the aged to live for their experience.” But would it not be wise to hold this experience as a sacred fund, to be drawn from when it is actually needed and desired? If one is continually referring to his “experience,” it will become obnoxious and offensive, and thus useless. True wisdom is modest and self-distrustful. It is far better for the aged to consider that it is not their province to “make things right,” than it is to live in a jangle of opinions, which renders some families unhappy.

Grown-up boys and girls are no longer children. They have reached the age of sound judgment, and should have a chance, as far as possible, to choose for themselves, without criticism or dictation, except kind advice, when desired.

“Let us make the most we can of life” in the border-land. If anything about our families or friends troubles us, let us take it to our Father, who is carrying all our other burdens. Then we shall go care-free, and we shall be not only desired, but a comfort and a blessing to all about us, while we drop a smile here, and a good thought there.

Old people sometimes like to be considered young. They dress like the young, and their manners are affected. Let the heart be kept fresh and sympathetic, with a wise adjustment of dress, speech, and manners to advanced age, and there will be the simplicity of natural frankness and dignity, and a buoyancy of spirits which is welcomed everywhere.

Sanitarium, Cal.