I pluck an acorn from the green sward and hold it to my ear; and this is what it says to me: "By and by the birds will come and nest in me. By and by I will furnish shade for the cattle. By and by I will provide warmth for the home in the pleasant fire. By and by I will be shelter from the storm to those who have gone under the roof. By and by I will be the strong ribs of the great vessel, and the tempest will beat against me in vain, while I carry men across the Atlantic."
   "Oh foolish little acorn, wilt thou be all this?"
   And the acorn answered, "Yes, God and I." -- Lyman Abbott.