associations
which are corrupting in their character, as is shown by its use in
promoting the frivolity of the ball-room, and the dissipation of the
drinking-saloon, and especially in exciting the passions and drowning
the sensibilities of those engaged in the awful conflicts of the
battle-field; and that it is often resorted to to dispel the feelings
of sadness and inquietude which are spread over the mind at times by
the Holy Spirit, and are the merciful visitations of our compassionate
Redeemer, designed to draw the thoughts away from earthly things, and
to fix them upon the alone Source of never ending happiness. Instead
of quietly and patiently abiding under these dispensations, with the
mind stayed on the Lord, in order to experience their full benefit, if
any of these visited ones should resort to instruments of music and
other means of dissipating the impressions on their minds, it will be
likely to mar the blessing designed by this extension of the mercy of
God to their souls.

The same kind of reasoning, which would defend the use of music and
singing as amusements, may also be urged in support of dancing,
attending theatrical exhibitions, and other indulgences, which, in the
aggregate, distinguish the man of the world from the self-denying
follower of Christ.

We desire, therefore, renewedly to call the attention of Friends to
this subject; and to caution them against indulging themselves or
their families in any practice, however pleasing to the natural taste,
which will weaken their hands in supporting in its purity our ancient
testimony to the nature of spiritual worship; or which will have the
effect of retarding their own progress in the self-denying path that
leads to the kingdom of heaven.

End of Project Gutenberg's On Singing and Music, by Society of Friends

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