Dear Philothea!
As we grow closer to Christ and His Father, we certainly desire to be “perfect”
to be free from the many imperfections and failings that still trouble us
daily. What does our father Saint Francis de Sales tell us on this?
“You recognise thousands of imperfections and
failings in yourself, contrary to your desire for purity and perfect love of
God. In reply I say that it is not possible to avoid all of these. While we
live on this earth, we have to put up with
ourselves,
until the day that God takes us to Heaven. Meanwhile, we can do no more than to
keep a close watch on ourselves, and be patient. How can we correct in one day
defects that we have contracted by our prolonged lack of diligence? Sometimes
God has healed a person in an instant, without leaving a trace of his previous
spiritual sickness. But in so many others He has left the scars of their
conversation, for the greater benefit of their souls” (Letters 277).
When we learnt to “put up with ourselves” while acknowledging our many
weaknesses we shall be well, “for He will not reject a humble and contrite
heart” (Psalm 51: 17). Let us be very patient with our own selves.
Peace!
Fr. George
Spiritual Director
