Mar 18. Be grateful for self-styled enemies.

In addressing those who have spoken against you, say to them, “Thank you. You’ve helped me affirm that which alone is real to me: the joy of my own being.” A “friend” once spent more than one hour coldly denouncing me for all the faults he had perceived in me. They seemed in some way to disturb his peace of mind. I listened in silence, then thanked him. There was nothing more to be said. After his departure, however, I wrote what I think of as one of my best songs, the lyrics of which go:Though green summer fade     And winter draw near,My Lord, in Your presence     I live without fear.Through tempest, through snows,     Through turbulent tide,The touch of Your hand     Is my strength, and my guide.I ask for no riches     That death can destroy.I crave only Thee:     Your love, and Your joy.The dancers will pass;     The singing must end:I welcome the darkness     With You for my Friend.For this song I am forever grateful to my self-styled enemy and ill-wisher.Support the show