Meekness
Learn of Me that I am meek and humble of heart. St. Matt. 11:29.
TWELFTH DAY.
I have learned by experience that the best mode of governing is that which is sweet, humble, and patient. — St. Jane Frances.
When this saint asked her daughters in religion to do something, even if it was of little consequence, it was with such meekness that they were confused to see to what a degree she humbled herself. When she exacted something necessary, it was with so much sweetness that she was obeyed with joy and promptness.
St. Vincent de Paul wrote as follows to the Superior of one of the houses of his congregation who had complained with much rigor of a priest in his parish: “It would be advisable to bear patiently with the priest of whom you speak; you have not, perhaps, his faults, but you have others. If you had not this to suffer, you would have no occasion to practice charity. Moreover, your conduct does not much resemble that of Jesus Christ, Who chose for His disciples the rude and lowly, who were, no doubt, subject to many faults. He did this to teach us to practice affability and patience, and to show us the manner in which those who have the office of Superior should conduct themselves.”
Prayer.
Lord, I humbly beg the grace to treat those who are in my charge with humility, sweetness, and patience. Grant that if I have something to suffer from them, I may remember that I ought to rejoice to have an occasion to exercise charity.