SPARE MOMENTS by Mrs. Emily Thornton

Pacific Press Publishing Company · Oakland, California · Feb 12, 1894

FromSigns of the Times, Vol. 20, No. 15.

SPARE MOMENTS.

By Mrs. Emily Thornton

Oh, be careful of spare moments, Little moments slipping past; Though they seem of no importance, Disappearing, oh, how fast! It were better far to turn them to some good account at last.

Life itself is made up solely Of these moments set in hours; And we find that man's improvement Both in health and mental powers All depends upon right usage of odd moments that are ours.

Some there are who, ever reckless, Throw this precious gift away, Gambling, stealing, fighting, drinking, Lounging idly, day by day, Reeling homeward then, at midnight, flinging curses by the way.

Others, studious and thoughtful, In life mingle, cool and calm, Toiling hard from morn till nightfall, And, while toiling, sing some psalm, Making study in the evening prove a spirit-soothing balm.

Some, exempt from toilsome labor, Having riches, power, and health, Use these moments to advantage By distributing their wealth To the needy, not for lip praise, for they do good half by stealth.

Some, again, in quiet home walks Have a loving word to say, Cheering weary, toil-worn parents, Helping dear ones, day by day, Their spare moments being fruitful in a humble, cheerful way. —Mrs. Emily Thornton.