“For in much wisdom is much vexation, and he who increases knowledge increases sorrow.” (Ecclesiastes 1:18).
I was given this note by a parishioner, Ann Dawson (now gone to glory), some years ago. It is entitled: ‘Sorrow comes to Every Door’:
“One day when the future seemed to hold so much in store – someone halted at the gate and knocked upon my door. He said, ‘It’s time I knew you. You have had your happy years – now I come to bring you trouble. Now it’s time for tears.’ His presence darkened every room with fear and grief and pain – I thought the sun would never shine again. But when at last he went away I chanced to see his face – and suddenly a kind of glory shone around the place. I cried: ‘What are you, friend or angel? Enemy or friend?
He said: ‘My name is Sorrow. Soon or late my way I wind down every road – for all men must be visited by me – to make them wise and give the strength to face reality.” (Patience Strong.)