Many count the years of their conversion; but oftentimes the fruit of amendment is but small.
If it be frightful to die, perhaps it will be more dangerous to live longer.
Blessed is he that has always the hour of his death before his eyes, and every day disposes himself to die.
If thou hast at any time seen a man die, think that thou must also pass the same way.
3. In the morning, imagine thou shalt not live till night: and when evening comes, presume not to promise thyself the next morning.
Be therefore always prepared, and live in such a manner, that death may never find thee unprovided.
Many die suddenly, and when they little think of it: For the Son of Man will come at the hour when he is not looked for. Matthew xxiv. When that last hour shall come, thou wilt begin to have quite other thoughts of thy whole past life: and thou wilt be exceedingly grieved that thou hast been so negligent and remiss.
4. How happy and prudent is he who strives to be such now in this life, as he desires to be found at his death.
For it will give a man a great confidence of dying happily, if he has a perfect contempt of the world, a fervent desire of advancing in virtue, a love for discipline, the spirit of penance, a ready obedience, self-denial, and patience in bearing all adversities for the love of Christ.