He took for his text the words of St. Paul: "Rejoice evermore."

He began: "There is a class of people, the followers of
Schopenhauer, who declare that life is not worth living.

"They say this world is almost the worst possible place we could
live in, and that, if it were a shade worse, it would be impossible
to live in it, and people would willingly end their existence. This
doctrine is called 'pessimism.'"

Frank felt very interested. Every word which the preacher said,
seemed directly addressed to him.

The young minister continued: "There is another class of pessimists
who have never thought of following this Schopenhauer, but who,
nevertheless, find life a burden and this world almost an inferno."

* * * * *

"This class of people (the pessimists) pull long faces and go about
their work sighing. They see everything turned upside down but it is
they who are cross. 'Life is not worth living,' they say, 'this
world is a miserable dwelling place;' but it is they who cause their
lives to be not worth living, who make themselves miserable."

* * * * *

"Some of them who profess to be good, do a great deal of harm to
Christianity; more than is perhaps generally imagined. People
examine them and nod their heads. 'Christianity is a failure,' they
say."

* * * * *

"Help to put down Schopenhauer's wretched doctrines. Look at the
bright side of life."

"You will meet with difficulties, but do not despond; to every
cloud, there is a silver lining."

He declared he was an optimist. He invited his hearers, one and all
to adopt the optimistic view of life, and help to bring the kingdom
of God upon earth. He pointed out the causes which should help to
make us cheerful, beautiful nature, healthy mental and physical
occupations and distractions....

He told them to remember that time would be followed by eternity; to
hopefully prepare for the life to come, and to help others to do the
same.

Once out of the church, Frank felt very much puzzled. Both the
discourse and the manner in which it had been delivered, had
impressed him. What would he do? It certainly was a matter for
consideration. Was there a silver lining to the cloud that was
floating around him? Would he hope? Would he, in spite of
everything, try and be cheerful?

When he came home, he had formed a decision. He would try. He would
answer the invitation