Saints' Discussion Forums

The highest degree of meekness consists in seeing, serving, honoring, and treating amiably, on occasion, those who are not to our taste, and who show themselves unfriendly, ungrateful, and troublesome to us.

-- Saint Francis de Sales

This note is providential. As you know not only is St. Francis de Sales one of my favorite Saints, but I was just listening to a recording about meekness yesterday.

I do note he says "on occasion". I wonder what he means by that?

Ah yes, I was going to highlight 'on occasion', but didn't want to tamper with the Saint's words. He probably means to serve, honor etc the cranky individual , but only when you are forced to interact with him/her. You don't have to go socialize with  and seek out such people. It is like searching for crosses that God does not intend you to carry. :D

Yes, it's true that St. Francis de Sales has written letters on not going out to find crosses, but that they shall be provided. That it is prideful to want to do mortifications on your own timetable and how you wish rather than He wishes.

"Be at Peace"
Do not look forward in fear to the changes of life;
Rather look to them with full hope that as they arise,
     God, whose very own you are, will lead you safely
     through all things;
And when you cannot stand it, God will carry you
     in His arms.
Do not fear what may happen tomorrow;
The same everlasting Father who cares for you today
     will take care of you today and every day.
He will either shield you from suffering or will give you
     unfailing strength to bear it.
Be at peace and put aside all anxious thoughts and
     imaginations.

St. Francis de Sales