Give over thine own willing

Reader Responses

What stories from history have informed or inspired your spirituality?
Is there a quote from early Friends that particularly informs your spiritual path, and how?

There are three historical Friends who speak to me. When I read about Margaret Fell, Elizabeth Fry, and John Woolman, it feels as if their deeds, their words are directed to me in particular. This is obviously not the objective truth, but a spiritual truth, at least for me.

There is one quote that moves me to continue in quiet practice and service: "Conduct is more convincing than language." — John Woolman 

John's words encapsulate how I approach my whole life, especially things to do with this Quaker faith that I so align with. I often have the impulse to share spiritual nuggets or political activism with those around me. And to be honest, I do share with those I know are open to my joys and sorrows. However, John's words steer me to put my life to work rather than open my mouth to cry out.

I am far from perfect. I am known to get worked up about something and drag out the ills (or thrills) of whatever is stimulating me to action. This is where Elizabeth Fry's words "Oh Lord, may I be directed what to do and what to leave undone," guide me. I cannot do it all. I cannot hold the whole world to account. I cannot change every person's mind that might need changing. I must focus on what I can do, and many times Elizabeth's words sort of pinball me back to John's.

I would be remiss if I didn't acknowledge Margaret Fell and her words, "Theology divides, service unites," and how they inspire me to be a Friend despite my lack of traditional spiritual beliefs.

Becks R., Carstairs, Alberta, Canada

I’m certain I won’t be the only respondent to quote John Woolman. My favorite has been a touchstone for many years. 

When Woolman decided to visit the indigenous tribes in Pennsylvania to see what he might learn from them, he was advised that it was a dangerous venture and he shouldn’t go. His response was that he was going because “Love was the first motion,” and there might be much to learn from visiting with these people. 

I think what he meant by this was that God created us out of love, and we are fundamentally designed to be loving creatures.

Greg M., North Andover, MA, USA

My maternal grandmother, Eva Marie Penman, was my first spiritual director, guide, and companion. She influenced and informed my character and personality and most of spiritually.

There was no year, especially no summer that I didn't spend with my grandparents in Lexington. My grandmother made sure I went to church with her at the Historic Pleasant Green Baptist Church. Sunday School, worship service, and evening church in the country were the order of my first day of the week.

The order for the rest of the week was to rise early for a hearty breakfast, chores for the day, lessons of life and of daily prayer and scripture ready (have a little talk with Jesus). After that it was off to the world of play.

From her I inherited an intentional and rhythmed way of living, called by the monastics a rule or rhythm of living. Her basic overall rule:
Love God, self, and others. Respect and revere nature. Obey your parents. Go to school and church. Get a job which reminds me of the Rule of Benedict that says when you labor with your hands, then you are truly a monk.

These days I live by a balanced discipline of prayer, work, study, and leisure.

Joseph J., Brown Deer (Milwaukee), WI, USA