Isn’t it interesting that the word “human” with an added “e”
doesn’t necessarily describe humans? How many humans that you know are
really “humane”? How many have stopped listening to the lies of
manipulators who exploit nonhuman animals for financial gain? How many
allow their conscience to assert itself, resulting in changes toward a
more peaceful and compassionate lifestyle for all of creation – human
and nonhuman?
Unfortunately, the answer is “relatively few” – both in the past and
at the present time. John Galsworthy was one of those who tried to
promote kindness toward both humans and nonhumans.
Born in England 14 August 1867, John Galsworthy gave up
a career in law and became one of the most important English novelists
and dramatists of his time. His novels and plays usually protested
against some social injustice, but they also rank high as literature, as
do his poems. His work, The Forsyte Saga, consisted of a
series of novels about the affluent Forsyte family. To read his poem
“Prayer for Gentleness,” visit:
http://www.all-creatures.org/poetry/ar-prayerfor.html
Galsworthy visited the United States several times. In 1929 he was
awarded the British Order of Merit, and in 1932 he received the Nobel
Prize for literature. He died 31 January 1933.
The following is a quotation by John Galsworthy found in Much Cry,
Little Wool:
“Once admit that we have the right to inflict
unnecessary suffering and you destroy the very basis of human
society.”
For a large collection of fascinating quotations, visit:
http://www.all-creatures.org/quote.html
Also visit:
http://www.all-creatures.org/anex/index.html
