Recently I was rereading some letters written by my 2nd
great grandfather, George Erety Jr. of Philadelphia, to his daughter, Mary
Erety Shoemaker, my great grandmother, after she was married and was living in
Bridgeton, New Jersey. On March 24, 1854 he wrote to her:
“In reference to the paper on the sitting room
walls, you say in your letter that it is quite dark and your Mother
tells me that it is very dark. Now in my judgment the true Philosophy of
Life is to make the best of, and if possible to have everything bright and
cheerful around us and to adopt a habit of pleasantry and cheerfulness in our
conduct and conversation; To always look on the bright side and if possible to
cultivate a taste for the Bright and Beautiful in everything. For these reasons
I shall vote for new and bright colored paper in the sitting room as well as on
the Parlor. I shall be happy to acquire the paper for you if you like.”
What a wonderful way to look at life! I am so grateful for
my family, friends, and multiple blessings! The Christmas message rings with
the joy of the Bright and Beautiful through our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
