Letter XI. To a Friend

Be consoles him on the death of his brother. My Dear Brother (for I am in the place of the one whom our good God has withdrawn to himself), — I am told that you weep continually over this truly very painful separation. This must not be; either you weep for him or for yourself; if for him, why weep that our brother is in Paradise, where tears have no more place? but if for yourself, is there not therein too much self-love?

I speak with you quite frankly; for one would think that you love yourself more than his happiness, which is incomparable. And do you wish that, for your sake, your brother should not be with him who gives all of us life, movement, and being, so long as we acquiesce in his holy pleasure and Divine will?

But come and see us, and often, and we will turn tears into joy* recalling together that joy which our * John xvi. 20.

good brother is enjoying, and which shall never more be taken from him; and in general, think often on it and on him. Thus you will live joyful, as, with all my heart, I wish you to be. I heartily recommend myself to your prayers, and assure you that I am yours, &c.