Quaker Advices
[Under development: 3 June 2005 ]
Although similar in some ways to the Desiderata, the Quaker Advices are not only not carved in stone, getting rewritten from time to time to reflect the changing world, and therefore consciousness, in which we live, the latest rewriting having been completed in the early 1990s, but are also less comforting.
· To what extent do you seek out written material that is disturbing?
· When should counselling be comforting?
Like the Desiderata, the Quaker Advices appear exhortatory, and thereby directive. However, the preamble suggests that to read them as instructions is to miss the point: "Dearly beloved Friends, these things we do not lay upon you as a rule or form to walk by, but that all, with the measure of light which is pure and holy, may be guided; and so in the light walking and abiding, these may be fulfilled in the Spirit, not from the letter, for the letter killeth, but the Spirit giveth life." (1665) To me, this preamble also suggests a recognition of 'frame of reference'.
The Biblical Book of Proverbs contains much advice given to a young man.
· Were you to write your own ‘advice to yourself as a young person’, what would you include?
extract from the Quaker Advices
In your relations with others, exercise imagination, understanding, and sympathy. Listen patiently, and seek whatever truth other people's opinions may contain for you. Think it possible that you may be mistaken. In discussion, avoid hurtful and provocative language; do not allow the strength of your convictions to betray you into making statements or allegations that are unfair or untrue.
Remember that no one can live to himself; be ready to seek counsel and help from one another. Let not failure discourage you.
Remember your responsibility as citizens for the government of your own town and country, and do not shirk the effort and time this may demand. Do not be content to accept things as they are, but keep an alert and questioning mind. Seek to discover the causes of social unrest, injustice and fear; and try to discern new growing-points in social and economic life. Work for an order of society which will allow men and women to develop their capacities and will foster their desire to serve.
