Events are messengers of either Divine goodness or justice.
Each has a mission to fulfil; and as it comes from GOD, why not let it be
accomplished in peace?
Painful, heart-rending, though they may be, they are still the Will of
GOD. Watch them as they come, with a little trembling, perhaps even
terror, but never let them destroy in the least degree my faith and
resignation.
To be meek under these circumstances, does not mean awaiting them with a
stoic firmness which proceeds from pride, or hardening one's self against
them to the point of repressing all trembling. No! GOD allows us sometimes
to anticipate, postpone, or even when possible flee them; at any rate, we
may try to soothe and soften them a little.
The GOOD FATHER, when He sends them, sends at the same time the means by
which they may be endured, and perhaps averted.
_Remedies_, in sickness.
_Love_, in trouble.
_Devotion_, in privations.
_Comfort_, in weakness.
_Tears_, in sorrow.
GOD has created all these; and knowing perhaps that I may fail to find
them, He has given commandment to some privileged servants to love,
console, soothe, and help me, saying to them,--
"Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these My brethren,
ye have done it as unto Me."
Oh! welcome then the friendly voice that in the midst of trouble speaks to
me of hope; I will receive with gratitude the care that affection presses
upon me.
With thankfulness I accept the _time_ devoted to me, _privation_ borne for
my sake; and I will pray GOD to bless these kind friends, and ask Him to
say to them words such as these: "All that thou hast done for Mine, I will
repay thee a hundred-fold."