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  BEFORE THE BIRTH OF ONE OF HER CHILDREN
  by Anne Bradstreet
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Summary: This sermon encourages the listener to cherish loved ones and
leave a lasting legacy in light of the fleeting nature of life and the
inevitability of death.

Topics: "Mortal Life", "Eternal Preparation"
Scripture References: Psalm 90:12, Proverbs 27:1, Ecclesiastes 3:1, 1 Thessalonians 4:13, James 4:14

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DESCRIPTION
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Anne Bradstreet reflects on the transient nature of life and the
inevitability of death, emphasizing the importance of cherishing loved
ones and preparing for the unknown future. She expresses her love and
concern for her dear friend, urging them to remember her fondly and care
for her children in her absence. Bradstreet's words serve as a reminder
to value relationships, preserve memories, and protect what is dear to
us.

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CONTENT
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All things within this fading world hath end, Adversity doth still our
joys attend; No ties so strong, no friends so dear and sweet, But with
death's parting blow is sure to meet. The sentence past is most
irrevocable, A common thing, yet oh, inevitable. How soon, my Dear,
death may my steps attend.

How soon't may be thy lot to lose thy friend, We both are ignorant, yet
love bids me These farewell lines to recommend to thee, That when that
knot's untied that made us one, I may seem thine, who in effect am none.

And if I see not half my days that's due, What nature would, God grant
to yours and you; The many faults that well you know I have Let be
interred in my oblivious grave; If any worth or virtue were in me, Let
that live freshly in thy memory And when thou feel'st no grief, as I no
harms, Yet love thy dead, who long lay in thine arms. And when thy loss
shall be repaid with gains Look to my little babes, my dear remains. And
if thou love thyself, or loved'st me, These O protect from step-dame's
injury.

And if chance to thine eyes shall bring this verse, With some sad sighs
honour my absent hearse; And kiss this paper for thy love's dear sake,
Who with salt tears this last farewell did take.

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Source: https://sermonindex.net/speakers/anne-bradstreet/before-the-birth-of-one-of-her-children/
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