A NOVICE asked some of the Sisters to help to shake blankets, which being rather worn, she cautioned them somewhat sharply to be careful not to tear. Sœur Thérèse remarked:
"What would you do if it were not your office to mend these blankets? . . . With what detachment you would then act! And if you did point out that they are easily torn, how free from self-interest it would be. Thus, never let the least shadow of self-interest glide into your actions."
COUNSELS AND REMINISCENCES
IN the infirmary the novices used scarcely to wait till her thanksgivings were ended before speaking to her and seeking her counsels. This, at first, grieved her and she gently reproached them. Then very soon she let them have their way, saying:
"The thought has struck me that I am not to desire more of repose than our Lord. When He retired into the desert after His discourses, the people came immediately to break in upon His solitude. Come to me as much as you will. I must die arms in hand, having on my lips the sword of the Spirit which is the Word of God." [7]
COUNSELS AND REMINISCENCES
[7] Ephes., vi, 17.
"HOW do you manage so to practise virtue," asked a novice, "as to be always the same, invariably joyous and composed?"
"It has not been always so," she replied, "but ever since I have shunned all self-seeking I lead the happiest life that can be."
COUNSELS AND REMINISCENCES