Page:Manualofsisterso00sist 0.djvu/78

 and burning  fire. The sword  separates  us  from all that  is  dearest  on  earth  and  even  from  ourselves. In this  sacrifice,  the  soul  does  indeed taste innocent  and  pure  joys;  but  worldly  pleasures are  forbidden  her. No more  human  friendships, no  more  dissipation,  no  more  indulgence in reading  light  and  useless  books. She must be silent  when  she  would  like  to  speak;  speak when silence  would  be  agreeable;  labor  when she feels  inclined  to  rest,  and  often  rest  when labor would  seem  to  be  more  grateful. This is not  all;  when  the  victim  has  been  immolated, it must  be  consumed;  all  that  is  opposed  to God  and  to  the  perfection  of  His  love,  judgment, will,  desires,  all  must  be  sacrificed  in  the religious soul. If this  picture  frightens  you, beware! You may  sully  that  holy  state.

The most  obedient  soul  will  be  the  most beloved. She who  rejoices  when  receiving humiliation and  correction  will  soon  delight the Heart  of  Jesus.