The words of the Angel: "Of His Kingdom there shall be no end," or the words of Simeon: He shall be "a sign which shall be contradicted."
The peaceful home-life with Jesus and Joseph, or the hurried flight into Egypt.
The anguish of losing Him (Desolation), or the joy of finding Him (Consolation).
The active work for the little household, or the times of contemplation at Jesus' feet.
The long, happy days at Nazareth with her Son, or the sad day when He left His Mother's roof.
The account of His success: "All men go to Him," or the account of His failure: "They all forsook Him and fled."
The cry: "Hosannah, blessed is He!" or the cry: "Crucify Him, crucify Him! it is not fit that He should live."
The agony of watching Him suffer and die, or the delight of seeing His glorified Body.
The pain of being left in exile on earth, or the joy of hearing Him say: "Arise, My fair one and come, the winter is over."