Ask and you will receive.

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How much of a book does proper etiquette advise can be copied?  What is the proper form for citation, or this year?  I'll do my best and hoqe for the best.  My newest read is covering ground I am travelling, only... better.  Even better that I am forced to stop and think, question my words, motives, and other nagging... things.  A unit, called a chapter, follows.

CHAPTER 12

OF THE UTILITY OF ADVERSITY 

IT IS good for us to have sometimes troubles and adversities, for they make a man enter into himself, that he may know he is in a state of banishment, and may not place his hopes in anything of this world.

It is good that we suffer contradictions, and that men have an evil or imperfect opinion of us, even when we do and intend well.  These things are often helps to humilty, and defend us from vainglory.

For then we better run to God, our inward witness, when outwardly we are despised by men, and little credit is given to us.

2. Therefore should a man so establish himself in God, as to have no need of seeking many comforts from men.

When a man of good will is troubled, or tempted, or afflicted with evil thoughts, then he better understands what need he has of God, without whom he finds he can do no good. (John 15:5)

Then also he laments, he sighs, and prays, by reason of the misery he suffers. 

Then he is weary of living longer, and he wishes death to come, that he may be "dissolved and be with Christ". (Phil. 1:23)

Then also he will perceive that perfect security and full peace cannot be found in this world.

The Imitation of Christ, Thomis A. Kempis

As well, something more heartening.

CHAPTER 3

OF THE DOCTRINE OF TRUTH

Happy is he whom Truth teacheth by itself, not by figures and words that pass, but as it is in itself.  (Ps. 17:36; Pa. 28:26).  Our opinion and our sense often deceive us, and discover but little.

...

The Imitation of Christ, Thomis A. Kempis

For I was called.  I was not welcome nor am I yet, among many, in any church.  If it wasn't for God, and rather urgently, I wouldn't be faithful.  More, I suspect most who would have taught would have corrupted.  My initial instructor was good, if hamstrung by many around him for his good faith, but he didn't call and the education was impersonal, class-based.  Not a thing of pride, though.  What will Christ do for the lost sheep?  Right.  Still...  Pleasing.  I did get private lessons.

Sometimes the right book at the right time.  Some of it is difficult to read.  I worry, doubt myself, outright know I fail, failed, will fall again.  Good to have another source to find comfort, find the right trailhead again, then to it.  The book also has recommendations for various toils or even good times.  I think it's a keeper.

I am an ugly man, but His ugly man.  He gave me the time to bow and learn.


Good night.