UPS AND DOWNS.

Otago Witness, Issue 1489, 29 May 1880, Page 27

UPS AND DOWNS.

Almost from the cradle to the grave these "needful changes" form a portion of our human life ; ever occurriag, like the ebb and flow of the great ocean— at one period, calmly gliding away in gentle murmurs ; at another, wildly dashing upon the shore, each wave leaving some aad memento of pa3t storm and strife, or like the deep blue skies of heaven, under which we walk serene and fearless, unheeding the dark clouds gathering around, until the lightning's flash bursts forth in threatening violence.

Ups and doitms I Who has not encountered these ? Into whose existence have they not entered ? From the lowly-born serf to the monarch on his throne, not one is exempt. They are the allotted condition of humanity, though some there are to whom life appears one loHg holiday — over whose sunny path ever seem scattered fair, bright flowers— whilst there are others whose way is dim and rayless, as they toil onward over the rocky steep or through the bri'ary waste. Why should there be such contrasts ? We cannot answer. 'Tis hidden 4 from our infinite view, amid

—"those mysteries which heaven Will not have earth to know."

But these cases are exceptional, the greater number of our fellow-beings having a mingled existence, woven in the warp and woof of destiny— prosperity and adversity, health and sickness, joy and sorrow, a contrast in every phase of life's recurring years— at times, with lifted head, pouring forth loud peana of gladuess ; at others, with clasped hands and downcast eyes, uttering low toneß of grief.

1 would believe these ups and downs of life are sent in mercy — " counselors, that feelingly persuade me what I am;" for, without them, we might become too worldly, too self-reliant. Neither should we so value the sunshine of our maDy blessings, did we not also pass through the gloom of the dark shadows. Would hope be so radiant had there been no fear j or smiles "be deemed so precious were tears unknown? And what would constitute the bliss of meeting, had not our hearts been tried by the parting sorrow ?

*J hy, then, drea-1 theso up 3 and downs, Since they bring ub nearer To the outer wall of life, Where the light grows e'earer? Newer to the hand of Him Who, with geritle guiding, Leads through all life's weary wsys, Into peace abiding." E. A