Should one of those moments of [pg 102] vague misgivings, that leave the soul as it were in utter darkness, come to overwhelm you, call upon God, as a child in terror cries out to its mother.
If you have sinned, oh! even then be not afraid of the merciful God, but with eyes full of tears, say to Him, "Pardon me" ... and add softly, "chastise me soon, O Lord!"
Yes, yes, dear one, be always at peace, going on quietly with your daily duties ... more than that, be always joyous.
And why not?
You who have no longer a mother to love you, and yet crave for love, God will be as a mother. You who have no brother to help you, and have so much need of support, God will be your brother. You who have no friends to comfort you, and stand so much in need of consolation, God will be your friend.
Preserve always the childlike simplicity [pg 103] which goes direct to God, and speak to Him as you would speak to your mother.
Keep that open confidence that tells Him your projects, troubles, joys, as you tell them to a brother.
Cherish those loving words that speak of all the happiness you feel, living in dependence upon Him, and trusting in His Love, just as you would tell it to the friend of your childhood.
Keep the generous heart of childhood which gives all you have to God. Let Him freely take whatever He pleases, all within and around you. Will only what He wills, desiring only what is in accordance with His Will, and finding nothing impossible that He commands.
Do you not feel something soothing and consoling in these thoughts? The longer you live, the better you will understand that true happiness is only to [pg 104] be found in a life devoted to God, and given up entirely to His Guidance.