Civilian & telegraph. [volume] (Cumberland, Md.) 1859-1875, 1863-02-19
Hligtellantang.
The instability Of Life.

That life is uncertain, and death unavoid-
able, is a maxim which though all admit to
he true, all seem willing TO forget 1t is a
maxim which has been so often reiterated
that none can he ignorant Of it-and II any
were disposed to disregard it, the perpetual
occurrence of its fulfllncnt might be sulfi-
cient for its establishment as an eternal
truth Granting, then that it be true, it is
not matter of such consequences as to de-
mand cur serious attention? Can any one
bestow on it even the slightest consideration,
without feeling its importance, without per-
cciving that, regarding it merely as relating
to complete removal from this world, and
all its concerns, independently of the reward
or punishment which is to follow, it is a
point of tie utmost Importance? Can any
one reflect, as on matter Of no concern, on
the being separated from all those whom he
is beloved? Can he disregard the tears which
will burst from tho bosoms Of those whom
fillial or fraternal affection have bou d to
him? Can be think unmoved, that he will
no more augment their joy, OF soothe their
grief? that whatever Ganser may threaten
them, lie can no longer lend his assistance to
avert it? and whatever blessings may conjin
to make them happy, will be embittered by
the reflection that lie is not sliarer in them?
He who can think on this without emotion,
is no more or less than man. Yet these
are the consequences of that event, the oc-
currence of which to every one is certain
and the period to which it shall take place
is unknown. Can it be denied, then, that
this is matter demanding our most serious
attention? But the departure from this
world, however affection or friendship may
endear it to us, must ever be considered, by
the virtuous, as a cause of joy, since it re-
moves them from regions of darkness and of
sin, to realms of light and purity. Sure,
then, he who wishes to make even bis death
contribute TO the happiness of those whom
he loved while living, will so conduct him
self in this life, as to leave no anxious doubt
ings on their minds, with respect to his wei
fare ia the life eternal He will act So that
at the end he may look back with tranquili-
ty, and forward with rapture-without re-
gret for the past, or fear for the future. But
the disposition of mind necessary for the at
tainment of life, productive of this desira-
ble conclusion cannot be acquired except by
a frequent and serious consideration, ard a
firm conviction, the highest incentive to viz
tue would be wanting. H. is, then not only
the duty but interest of every one to reflect
in n manner suitable to the Importance OF
the subject, on the uncertainty Of the pres
sent life, and on consequent necessity Of be-
ing prepared for the change which we know !
must take place, at some period. how near
or how remote we are, by an all-wise Proyi-
dence, kept ignorant. Nor can the wisdom
which dictates this concealment be impeach-
ed. Were the time at which our dissolution
should occur known to us, its remoteness, il
distant. would breed indolent security-or
its suddenness, If near, occasion terrors,
which would prevent preparation for it.