AN ACQUAINTANCE

 

In talking with a friend of childhood days, Sis asked:—

 

'Before your death had you thought much of the life beyond?'

 

"Only in the old-fashioned way, as the ministers describe it. My father had been a minister, you know."

 

'Did you find much to learn there?'

 

"Yes, I came with all the old orthodox teachings enveloping me, and it was hard at first to be rid of them, and know that the only hell is the one we make for ourselves, and that we need not endure it unless we obstinately hold onto our sins or our old beliefs. I was glad to be rid of both and start anew with hope and happiness and usefulness as my goal. Oh, I could tell you much of this life if I could find words for it all. But you may look forward to a happiness that will never fade, a kindly service for others that will give you untold joy."

 

'How can we serve there where all are so happy and all are so good?'

 

"Not all are happy; not all are good. Have you not seen or known of the selfish ones, the low-lived ones, the ignorant ones? Do not think that the mere fact of slipping out of the body entitles one to high thought, spiritual happiness, and the multitude of joys which are here. Mortals are fashioning their future lives right now. The diversity here is great. But kindness of thought and purpose, and a persistent belief in this life, will carry one far toward the happiness that awaits them here. I never had any idea of following my father's career there, but if I could go back now I surely would be an exhorter, a…I don't know how to put it. But it would be such a passion for saving souls from all that is sinful, that life itself it would seem to me must be spent there in such service."