Before the Birth of One of Her Children
This sermon encourages the listener to cherish loved ones and leave a lasting legacy in light of the fleeting nature of life and the inevitability of death.
Anne Bradstreet reflects on the transient nature of life and the inevitability of death, emphasizing the importance of cherishing loved ones and preparing for the unknown future. She expresses her love and concern for her dear friend, urging them to remember her fondly and care for her children in her absence. Bradstreet's words serve as a reminder to value relationships, preserve memories, and protect what is dear to us.
Text
All things within this fading world hath end, Adversity doth still our joys attend; No ties so strong, no friends so dear and sweet, But with death's parting blow is sure to meet. The sentence past is most irrevocable, A common thing, yet oh, inevitable. How soon, my Dear, death may my steps attend.
How soon't may be thy lot to lose thy friend, We both are ignorant, yet love bids me These farewell lines to recommend to thee, That when that knot's untied that made us one, I may seem thine, who in effect am none.
And if I see not half my days that's due, What nature would, God grant to yours and you; The many faults that well you know I have Let be interred in my oblivious grave; If any worth or virtue were in me, Let that live freshly in thy memory And when thou feel'st no grief, as I no harms, Yet love thy dead, who long lay in thine arms. And when thy loss shall be repaid with gains Look to my little babes, my dear remains. And if thou love thyself, or loved'st me, These O protect from step-dame's injury.
And if chance to thine eyes shall bring this verse, With some sad sighs honour my absent hearse; And kiss this paper for thy love's dear sake, Who with salt tears this last farewell did take.
Sermon Outline
- The Fleeting Nature of Life
- The Inevitability of Death
- The Importance of Leaving a Lasting Legacy
- The Value of Cherishing Loved Ones
- We should appreciate and love those around us
- Their love and memories can bring comfort in times of loss
- It can strike at any moment
Key Quotes
“How soon, my Dear, death may my steps attend.” — Anne Bradstreet
“And if thou love thyself, or loved'st me, These O protect from step-dame's injury.” — Anne Bradstreet
“And kiss this paper for thy love's dear sake, Who with salt tears this last farewell did take.” — Anne Bradstreet
Application Points
- Make the most of the time you have with loved ones and cherish the memories you create together.
- Strive to leave a positive impact on those around you through your actions and legacy.
- Appreciate and love those in your life, holding onto their memories and cherishing the time you have with them.