~ This post is dedicated to Karen Edmisten, a dear friend and one of my favorite converts. : ) It was she that introduced me to Daily with De Sales…and it is she that has a birthday today!
Happy Birthday, Karen!!
“You recognize 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 conversion, for the greater benefit of their souls.”
“The scars of conversion.” Isn’t that perfect? Sometimes I don’t know what’s worse: the sinful sensuality of my past life or the prideful perfectionism of the here & now.
Every day presents new challenges. Every day brings brand new grace.
I find it hardest to be patient with myself, thank you for the reminder!! Happy Birthday to Karen!
Mags, I am shamefully behind on my blog reading, so here is a belated THANK YOU! I had a wonderful birthday, and I LOVE that you posted St. Francis de Sales for me! Thank you!!