This may seem even more difficult, for it so often appears to us as if
others were actuated by malice.
But how often it is only the result of temperament, pride,
thoughtlessness; seeking their own pleasure without a thought of the harm
they are doing me; then why be unhappy about it? I need only to be on my
guard.
Never stand in the way of others (when it is not the case of a duty to be
fulfilled), and if they sometimes are an obstacle in yours, remove them
gently, but do not harm them.
Yielding, submitting, retiring, giving up, this should be our conduct
towards the members of our family, and those we call our friends.
The more facility you give them for doing what they think right, the more
you enter into the feelings they have of their own importance, leaving
them a free course of action, so much the more will you be likely to be
useful to them, and retain your own peace of mind.
It is astonishing how those we never press open their hearts to us!
Do not try to examine too minutely the actions of others, or the motives
that actuate them; if they are wanting in tact, appear not to notice it,
or, better still, try to think they have made a mistake.
The best remedy for the dislike we feel towards any one is to endeavor to
try to do them a little good every day; the best cure for their dislike to
us is to try to speak kindly of them.
Are those around you wicked? be cautious, but do not lose heart; GOD will
not let them harm you.
How easy for GOD to stay the consequences of slander and calumny!
GOD is the shield, interposing between others, circumstances, and myself.