The prayer of the sick person is his patience and his acceptance of the sickness for the love of Jesus Christ. This has great worth when it is motivated by the imitation of how much Our Lord suffered for us, and by penance for our sins.
— Saint Charles of Sezze (1630-1670)
A time of sickness is a time of grace. It is then that we reap a harvest for an eternity.
— Saint Marguerite Bourgeoys (1620-1700)
Don’t permit your miseries or defects to depress you. Rather, let them be steps by which you descend the deep mine where we find the precious gem of holy humility. Learn that it is our littleness that buys this unique and true treasure that alone renders the soul that possesses it blessed in time and in eternity.
–Saint Paola Frassinetti (1809-1892)
It’s a good thing to have all the props pulled out from under us occasionally. It gives us some sense of what is rock under our feet, and what is sand.
–Madeline L’Engle (1918-2007)
We must grow quiet enough to realize God’s omnipresence, to feel his comforting hand and open our hearts within, silently, letting his healing have its way. Then the waters will flow over the arid soil and things will start to grow again. If only we keep still. God permits many wounds– but there are also miracles.
–Alfred Delp (1907-1945)
I must die to myself continually and accept trials without complaining. I work, I suffer and I love with no other witness than his heart. Anyone who is not prepared to suffer all for the Beloved and to do his will in all things is not worthy of the sweet name of Friend, for here below, Love without suffering does not exist.
–Saint Bernadette (1844-1879)
