Solitude Sweetened

If a burden is tied on my back, which I must carry to such a place, the more I try to fling it from me—the more it falls down with the greater weight; and instead of getting free from it, it becomes a greater burden still. But, if I go on calmly, my burden grows gradually lighter, by my patience and submission, until at last I get rid of it altogether. Not insensible—but submissive; not dejected—but resigned; not combating the means, nor quarreling the instrument—but confessing the first cause, and adoring the sovereignty of Heaven; is my present duty, and will be my peace...   ~ James Meikle