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.
