
Ruth Lamb was a 19th-century English author known for her engaging short stories and sketches that often reflected the social mores and domestic life of her time. Her works, such as 'Holiday Stories' and 'Comfortable Mrs. Crook, and Other Sketches,' showcased her keen observation of human nature and the subtleties of everyday life, often infused with a touch of humor and warmth. Lamb's narratives frequently centered around themes of family, morality, and the complexities of personal relationships, making her a notable voice in the realm of Victorian literature. In addition to her popular collections, including 'Aunt Milly's Diamonds' and 'Look on the Sunny Side: And Other Sketches,' Lamb's writing contributed to the rich tapestry of women's literature during the Victorian era, offering insights into the lives of women and their roles within society. Her ability to weave relatable characters and situations into her stories resonated with readers, establishing her as a significant figure among her contemporaries. Though not as widely recognized today, Ruth Lamb's contributions to literature reflect the evolving perspectives of her time, particularly in how they portrayed domestic life and the inner lives of women.
“What if I don’t like adventure?” I said. Ruth dragged over a kitchen chair and sat down facing me. “Then cultivate a taste for it. Take a chance. That’s how you grow.””
“When they were ready to leave, I handed Larry his check. “Here you go,” I said. “Have fun at Woodstock. Drive carefully.” “Have fun at school,” Ruth said. The dog was barking. Everyone was hugging and thanking everyone. From the truck window, Ruth held up Tia’s hand and made it blow kisses. Larry honked all the way down Pierce Street. I might have made them up, I thought, only they’d left evidence: the new wallpaper, a flea on my leg, dried orange juice sticking to my sneaker bottoms when I crossed the kitchen floor.””
“Jesus has followers among those who do not know him explicitly: `I have other sheep, that are not of this fold; I must bring them also, and they will hear my voice' On 10: 16). Jesus died, he says, `to gather into one the children of God who are scattered abroad' On 11: 52) in every age, in every race. In my endeavour to express what believing in Jesus means, I hope it will become clear that there are many `not of this fold' who are listening to his voice though they know it not, who despite this, believe in him. They cannot name him, they may even deny that the Lord of their hearts is Jesus, and this because they have only met his image and his teaching in the garbled version we have given them. The Lamb was slain from the foundation of the world and his redeemed are in every age,even before his coming in historical time. They are scattered now, unknown to themselves and to any but God.””