Letter 1866

LETTER 1866 [No date.] Vive > Jésus!

My dear Daughter,—Let everything you do, as far as possible, meet with the approbation of the sisters, but you must not be surprised if some blame your actions. Remember that Jesus Christ, the Superior of Superiors, was not exempt from censure. You should discuss affairs freely and without constraint with the sisters counsellors, and, when their opinion differs from yours, try, not in a melancholy or imperious way, but gently, to win them to your views.

The last edition of the ‘Book of Customs’ does not, I assure you, daughter, mean to convey that you should ask their advice on all such little occasions as you mention, nor when giving trifling presents, but only in matters of importance. Take care of the health of your daughters. It is incredible how they like the Superior to have an affectionate solicitude about it; but do not allow sisters to fuss about yours, and when those who have the care of it wish you to do something that you think unnecessary, give in without being blunt or obstinate, so that they may be rather edified than mortified. Take reasonable care of your own health as of that of others, and in no wise allow them to give you delicacies when you are unwell, for the servants of God ought resolutely to avoid all that savours of sensuality. Besides, these little things are neither good for the stomach nor for the health. Let them give you mutton, or eggs if it is a meagre day: these are suitable meats for the sick. Now do not take what I say too literally, dearest daughter, for during a serious illness whatever charity and the physician prescribe should be the law. May God be your sole glory and reward. Do not make friends of seculars for yourself or for your own convenience, but for the house and to maintain it.