desire to choose aright so as to insure their eternal salvation.
As you ought to beware of rashness in choosing a state of life, so ought you to guard against over-anxiety. Do not lose heart in presence of the momentous decision. Make use of the means I have pointed out to you; look constantly toward Heaven. Keep your soul pure; be diligent in prayer; frequently approach the sacraments; practise devotion to Mary; regard her as your Mother; and look with cheerful confidence into the future. Eternal peace and joy follow the earthly struggle. The way of the cross leads to. the crown of immortal glory.
Gentle Star of Ocean!
Portal of the sky!
Ever virgin mother
Of the Lord most high!
Break the captive's fetters;
Light on blindness pour;
All our ills expelling,
Every bliss implore.
Show thyself a mother;
Offer Him our sighs,
Who, for us incarnate,
Did not thee despise.
Virgin of all virgins!
To thy shelter take us I
Gentlest of the gentle!
Chaste and gentle make me.
Still, as on we journey,
Help our weak endeavor;
Till with thee and Jesus
We rejoice forever.
