LET US HELP ONE ANOTHER
By Mary L. Brown
This little sentence, “Do unto others as ye would that they should do unto you,” should be written on every heart, and stamped on every memory. This golden rule should be practiced throughout the world, and especially among the professed followers of Jesus; and if we abide by this precept, we shall most certainly desire to lend a helping hand to those around us. How dark were the life of the aged pilgrim, as he, leaning on his staff in his declining years travels slowly onward, did he not have some kind word, or the smile of love to light the gloom! Although he may have his eye fixed upon the mark, and see but a little in the distance the bright fields of glory, and feel that his Heavenly Father’s smiles are resting upon him, still in his pilgrimage here below it is pleasing to him to be treated gently and kindly, and by thus doing we shall gain the approbation of our Father in Heaven; for has he not promised, “Whosoever shall give to drink unto one of these little ones a cup of cold water only in the name of a disciple, verily I say unto you, he shall in no wise lose his reward?” Then let us heed these precious promises. There are many ways in which we may lend a helping hand or speak an encouraging word, and thus benefit others. May we not spurn the poor outcast, steeped in sin, but let us try with kind words to win back such ones to the path of rectitude and virtue. By helping those around us we not only remove thorns from the pathway, and anxiety from the mind, but we feel a sense of pleasure in our own hearts, knowing we are doing a duty for our fellow beings; and the Lord will bless the feeblest efforts put forth in this direction, if done out of a pure motive. Who has not needed the encouragement and aid of a kind friend? How soothing when in a state of perplexity, or burdened with the cares of life, to hear a kind voice whispering, “Let me help you!” What strength is inspired, what hope created, what sweet gratitude is felt! and the difficulties are removed as dew beneath the sunshine. Yes, let us help one another whenever an opportunity presents itself; if we see a brother or sister weary and oppressed, we will endeavor to encourage him and lift from him the weight which is so burdensome, that life may glide smoothly and the fount of bitterness yield sweet water. We will also remember that there is a higher Source to which we may flee in time of need and trial. His willing hand is ever ready to aid us, and he will reward our humble endeavors; and every good deed will be as bread cast upon the waters, to return after many days, if not to us to those we love. Then “Stretch forth your hand like a brother,
Remember that life’s but a span,
’Tis our duty to help one another,
And do a good turn when we can.”