2. HUMBLE TOWARDS OTHERS
Look upon yourself as the servant of all, but without ostentation, or their having any knowledge of it.
Repeat to yourself sometimes the [pg 153] words of the Blessed Virgin Mary: "Behold the handmaid of the Lord," and those of our Lord, "I came not to be ministered unto, but to minister;" and then act towards others as if you were their slave, warning, aiding, listening; abashed at what they do for you, and always seeming pleased at anything they may require you to do for them.
Oh! if you knew the full meaning of these words, all they signify of reward in heaven, of joy and peace on earth, how you would love them!
Oh! if you would only make them the rule of your life and conduct, how happy you would be yourself, and how happy you would make others!
Happy in the approval of conscience, that whispers, "You have done as Christ would have done."
Happy in the thought of the reward promised to those who give even a cup of cold water in the name of Jesus [pg 154]Christ; happy in the assurance that God will do for you what you have done for others.
Oh! what matters then ingratitude, forgetfulness, contempt, and scorn? They will pain, no doubt, but will have no power to sadden or discourage.
Precious counsel, inspired by Christ Himself, I bless you for all the good you have done me!