3. We would have others strictly corrected: but are not willing to be corrected ourselves.
The large liberty of others displeases us: and yet we would not be denied any thing we ask for.
We are willing that others should be bound up by laws: and we suffer not ourselves by any means to be restrained.
Thus it is evident how seldom we weigh our neighbour in the same balance with ourselves.
If all were perfect: what then should we have to suffer from others for God's sake?
4. But now God has so disposed things, that we may learn to bear one another's burdens: for there is no man without defect; no man without his burden: no man sufficient for himself; no man wise enough for himself: but we must support one another, comfort one another, assist, instruct, and admonish one another.
But how great each one's virtue is, best appears by occasion of adversity: for occasions do not make a man frail, but shew what he is.
Chap. XVII.
Of a monastic life.
1. Thou must learn to renounce thy own will in many things, if thou wilt keep peace and concord with others.