A DASH OF WISDOM

As a child, without always understanding the realities of life, I greatly admired the patriotic deeds of the heroines of France. I longed to do what they had done, especially Joan of Arc.

At the same time, young as I was, I received what I have always considered one of the greatest graces of my life. Our lord made me to understand that the only true glory is the glory that lasts forever, and that, to attain it, there is no necessity to do brilliant deeds.

Rather, we should hide our good works from the eyes of others and even from ourselves, so that the "left hand knows not what the right hand does."

From that moment on to this day, I have felt a daring confidence that I shall become a saint. I do not trust to my own merits for I have none, I trust in Him who is virtue and holiness itself. It is he alone who, pleased with my poor efforts, will raise me to himself and, by clothing me with his merits, make me a saint.

St. Therese of Lisieux 

(11-06-02)