"'Taking up one's cross' does not at all mean having...

"'Taking up one's cross does not at all mean having ovations at dinner parties, and being put over everybody else's head. It means simply that you are to go the road which you see to be the straight one carrying whatever you find is given you to carry, as well and stoutly as you can; without making faces, or calling people to come and look at you. Above all, you are neither to load, nor unload, yourself; nor cut your cross to your own liking. Some people think it would be better for them to have it large; and many, that they could carry it much faster if it were small; and even those who like it largest are usually very particular about its being ornamental, and made of the best ebony. But all that you have really to do is to keep your back as straight as you can; and not think about what is upon it— above all, not to boast of what is upon it. The real and essential meaning of 'virtue' is in that straightness of back. . . . God is a kind Father. He sets us all in the places where He wishes us to be employed; and that employment is truly 'our Father's business.' He chooses work for every creature which will be delightful to them, if they do it simply and humbly. He gives us always strength enough, and sense enough for what he wants us to do; if we either tire ourselves or puzzle ourselves, it is our own fault. And we may alway be sure, whatever we are doing, that we cannot be pleasing Him, if we are not happy ourselves."—John Ruskin