George Herbert (1593-1633) was a Welsh born Anglican priest, theologian, poet and orator. Though he was only 39 when he died, he accomplished an extraordinary amount in his life (including a brief stint in the Parliament of England in 1624 and 1625). While a priest remembered for his genuine care of his parishioners, he struggled with his call to ministry, reflected in one of his most famous poems The Collar which concludes with the words,
But as I rav’d and grew more fierce and wilde At every word, Me thoughts I heard one calling, Child! And I reply’d, My Lord.
Here are a few of his insights…
- Thou who hast given so much to me, give me one more thing – a grateful heart – George Herbert
- Love is that liquor sweet and most divine Which my God feels as blood; but I, as wine – George Herbert
- He who cannot forgive others breaks the bridge over which he must pass himself – George Herbert
- Living well is the best revenge – George Herbert
- A hundredload of worry will not pay an ounce of debt – George Herbert
As always, nice chatting…
