We must live a useful life. Nothing good ever comes out of idleness or out of selfishness. The standing water stagnates and breeds decay and death. It is the running stream that keeps pure and sweet. The fruit of an idle life is never joy and peace. Years lived selfishly never become garden spots in the field of memory. Happiness comes out of self denial for the good of other. Sweet always are the memories of good deeds done and sacrifices made. Their incense, like heavenly perfume, comes floating up form the fields of toil and fills old age with holy fragrance. When one has lived to bless others, one has many grateful, loving friends whose affection proved a wondrous source of joy when the days of feebleness comes. Bread cast upon the waters is found again after many days.
This reading was taken from Week-Day Religion
Chapter 31 : Beautiful Old Age