Page:From Passion to Peace - Allen - 1910.djvu/49

Rh dent life. Rising into it, man is lifted above inharmony and disturbance. When Perfect Good is realized and known, not as an opinion or an idea, but as an experience, a possession, then calm vision is acquired, and tranquil joy abides through all vicissitudes. The transcendent life is ruled, not by passions, but by principles. It is founded, not upon fleeting impulses, but upon abiding laws. In its clear atmosphere, the orderly sequence of all things is revealed, so that there is seen to be no room for sorrow, anxiety, or regret. While men are involved in the passions of self, they load themselves with cares, and trouble over many things; and more than all else do they trouble over their own little, burdened, pain-stricken personality, being anxious for its fleeting pleasures, for its protection and preservation, and for its eternal safety and continuance. Now in the life that is wise and good all this is transcended. Personal interests are replaced by universal purposes, and all