CHAPTER II.
CHARITY IS KIND.
(Charitas benigna est.)
He that loves Jesus Christ loves Meekness.
The spirit of meekness is peculiar to God: My spirit is sweet above honey.[1] Hence it is that a soul that loves God loves also all those whom God loves, namely, her neighbors; so that she eagerly seeks every occasion of helping all, of consoling all, and of making all happy as far as she can. St. Francis de Sales, who was the master and model of holy meekness, says, "Humble meekness is the virtue of virtues, which God has so much recommended to us; therefore we should endeavor to practise it always and in all things."[2] Hence the saint gives us this rule: "What you see can be done with love, do it; and what you see cannot be done without offence, leave it undone."[3] He means, when it can be omitted without offending God; because an offence of God must always, and as quickly as possible, be prevented by him who is bound to prevent it.
This meekness should be particularly observed towards the poor, who, by reason of their poverty, are often harshly treated by men. It should likewise be especially practised towards the sick who are suffering under infirmities, and for the most part meet with small help from others. Meekness is more especially to be observed in our behavior towards enemies: Overcome evil with good.[4] Hatred must be overcome by love, and per-
