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Idealia, a Utopian Dream; or, Resthaven cover

Idealia, a Utopian Dream; or, Resthaven

Chapter 2: PREFACE
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About This Book

A traveler pauses in the countryside and discovers an idealized retreat where carefully arranged grounds, comfortable leisure spaces, and communal conveniences frame portraits of the inhabitants and their gentle routines. Through descriptive scenes and reflective commentary, the narrative examines cooperative living, hospitality, small moral gestures, and practical ideals for personal and social improvement. The text moves between detailed atmosphere, character sketches, and short lessons intended to encourage readers to adopt modest, compassionate practices in everyday life.

PREFACE

The writer in sending out this little book asks that its readers will try to bear in mind that while the whole idea may be more or less ideal, it is hoped that here and there a thought may be culled which will serve as a working-basis for one or another of its readers. Often in life we realize that something within us is “knocking to be let out,” that it may go forth and be of use unto the world. We frequently need but the direction pointed to find a path along which we can tread, scattering here and there a kindly word, giving of ourselves whatever is best and worthy the giving, in return broadening our own lives, coming in touch with all natures and feeling the satisfaction that results from “having tried to do something.” Be the effort ever so small, it yet shows a desire put in action and we can hope that, given a multitude of these good actions, the result must surely be more sunshine, more hope, more inspiration to help others, greater ability to enjoy all that God has put before us.

The writer could carry out her purpose only by having a setting which is purely ideal, but from the ideal can often be deduced something real or practical, and of that we can use and adapt to ourselves and individual circumstances whatever will fit. In this case, it may be much or it may be little, but let us hope that it will be something, at least, whatever its measure may be. Therefore take from these pages that which appeals to you, then pass on the book to the next that whatever good seeds this little work may contain will in time fall in fruitful soil.