WHAT a charming scene we have before us! As we gaze at the old mill, half hidden among the trees: at the water dashing down over the rocks and turning the wheel which sets the machinery inside in motion; at the fine large trees which make refreshing shade; at the mountains in the distance with their peaks stretching upward toward the sky; at the ducks swimming in the smooth pool below; and at the man and woman dipping up the clear water at the foot of the moss-grown steps, we cannot but think what a very pleasing picture it is. It seems restful to look upon it and to think of such a lovely spot.
Do you think such a place would be a Paradise on earth? Oh! no, it would not. It would perhaps be away from the evils and vices of the busy haunts of men, and it would be free from the bustle and hum and dirt of the noisy city; but it would not be a spot where difficulties were not found, and where sorrows would not come, and where the trail of the serpent would not be seen. It will only be when we reach the Paradise above that we will find a scene of beauty and joy that will fully satisfy the heart, and that will have in it nothing to give sorrow or trial.
It is happy to enjoy the beautiful scenes in nature that God sets before us; but I trust my little readers will not seek their enjoyment in these things.
ML 04/06/1902