Fatherly Advice

Poetry sometimes throws light into the darker corners of existence.  It offers truths that are based on intuition, keen eyes, and soulful experiences. Just like good advice.  Some days when my thoughts have no safe place to rest, I turn to the words of Andrew Stuart, father to Jane, in Lucy Maud Montgomery’s wonderful novel, Jane of Lantern Hill.

When I read Lantern Hill, I hear Mr. Stuart’s words spoken by the gravelly voiced Sam Waterston, the actor who played him in the 1990 film of the book.  His voice has a deep resonating element that cheers me, comforts me.  But what I really need is Mr. Stuart’s between-the-words wisdom and guidance for good plain living.  And because L.M. Montgomery’s stories are so rooted in nature, his advice is spiritual as well as tranquilizing.  Let’s see if he can make you feel better too.

“It is the essence of adventure to see the break of a new day, Jane.  What may it not be ushering in?  An empire may fall today…a baby may be born who will discover a cure for cancer…a wonderful poem may be written”. 

“When the little moments torture you, Jane, think of the truth and the truth shall make you free…that is the most tremendous saying in the world Jane…because we are all afraid of the truth…and afraid of freedom that the truth will bring you”.

“Be sure to have a patch of excitement most every week”.

“The most awful and the most beautiful things in the world can be said in three words or less…he is gone…he is come…I love you…it’s too late.  Life is illuminated or ruined in words Jane.  And yet, when a poet praises a woman, she becomes immortal”.

“Don’t let others blow your candles out”.

“Watch the stars whenever you are worried Jane.  They will steady you…comfort you…balance you”.

“Jane, always remember that death can never fence out love”.

Father does know best sometimes.