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A Christmas Sermon cover

A Christmas Sermon

The essay reflects on ageing and the long decline of life, urging that service and steady moral effort matter more than conspicuous success. It criticizes a punitive, prohibition-centered ethic and warns that excessive self-scrutiny breeds hypocrisy and harshness toward others. Emphasizing kindness, honesty, patience, cheerfulness, and humility, it presents small domestic virtues as the true work of living well. Seasonal associations prompt a call to preserve childlike joy and to prefer making others happier to trying to reform them, while accepting that failure is often part of the human condition and perseverance still has moral worth.

By Robert Louis Stevenson
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Essays, Letters & SpeechesPhilosophy & Ethics

About This Book

The essay reflects on ageing and the long decline of life, urging that service and steady moral effort matter more than conspicuous success. It criticizes a punitive, prohibition-centered ethic and warns that excessive self-scrutiny breeds hypocrisy and harshness toward others. Emphasizing kindness, honesty, patience, cheerfulness, and humility, it presents small domestic virtues as the true work of living well. Seasonal associations prompt a call to preserve childlike joy and to prefer making others happier to trying to reform them, while accepting that failure is often part of the human condition and perseverance still has moral worth.

About the Author

Stevenson, Robert Louis portrait

Robert Louis Stevenson

Robert Louis Stevenson was a Scottish novelist, poet, and travel writer, renowned for his vivid storytelling and imaginative narratives. He is best known for his classic works such as "Treasure Island," which has captivated readers with its adventurous spirit and memorable characters. Stevenson's literary contributions extend to poetry, with notable collections like "A Child's Garden of Verses," which reflects his deep appreciation for childhood and nature. His works often explore themes of duality and human experience, making him a significant figure in 19th-century literature. Stevenson's adventurous life, including his time spent in Samoa, also influenced his writing, adding depth to his exploration of place and identity.

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