| The Joy of Service |
Chapter 20 |
Page 6 |
If some new project is proposed, with its glowing visions of success and wealth, and young men are tempted to embark at once in the splendid enterprise, perhaps putting all their money into it, they would better wait. They would better be sure that it is not a mere bubble which will burst tomorrow. “Nothing ventured, nothing won.” May be a wise enough maxim in some lines; but often it is very foolish motto. At least, before the venture is made, it should be known, of a reasonable certainty, that the project is not a mere visionary one, nor a fraudulent scheme to get the money of credulous investors.
We may well write town clerks’ bit of sage counsel down among our maxims for self government. We shall never be sorry afterward for thinking twice before we speak, for counting the cost before entering upon any new course, for sleeping over stings and injuries before saying or doing anything in answer, or for carefully considering any business scheme presented to us before putting money or name into it. It will save us from much regret, loss, and sorrow, always to remember to do nothing rashly.
“My mind was ruffled with small cares today,
And I said pettish words, and did not keep
Long suffering patience well, and now how deep
My trouble for this sin! In vain I weep
For foolish words I never can unsay.”
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