THOUGHTS ON THE MISERY OF MAN (part two)
But woe to those who know not their own misery, and greater woe to those who love this miserable and corruptible life. Some, indeed, can scarcely procure its necessities either by work or by begging; yet they love it so much that, if they could live here always, they would care nothing for the kingdom of God. (the world is telling us it is all about us and the present)
How foolish and faithless of heart are those who are so engrossed in earthly things as to relish nothing but what is carnal! Miserable men indeed, for in the end they will see to their sorrow how cheap and worthless was the thing they loved. (this is how I feel about my time
it is so precious, I hate finishing an activity or after watching a dumb show and thinking about how much of my time was just waisted. Dear Lord, help me be wise in the use of my time)
The saints of God and all devout friends of Christ did not look to what pleases the body nor to the things that are popular from time to time. Their whole hope and aim centered on the everlasting good. Their whole desire pointed upward to the lasting and invisible realm, lest the love of what is visible drag them down to lower things. (purity of intention!!!)
Do not lose heart, then, my brother, in pursuing your spiritual life. There is yet time, and your hour is not past. Why delay your purpose? Arise! Begin at once and say: "Now is the time to act, now is the time to fight, now is the proper time to amend." (hope is so inspiring!!!)
When you are troubled and afflicted, that is the time to gain merit. You must pass through water and fire before coming to rest. Unless you do violence to yourself you will not overcome vice. (if we could only remember this in the midst of suffering!!!)
Is it just me or is this getting tougher? Thy Will Be Done!!!+JMJ+
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