divine longing, which exceeds all our inordinate cravings. The chief and governing desire of all men is to be happy. All their efforts are aimed at happiness, or rather at what they mistake for it, thinking that it will make them happy. But most men fail to obtain it, because they cannot discern the true from the false. Happiness is holiness. There is but one way to this one end; all other desires are deviations from happiness. He desires our happiness in the only true form and way. If we desire the same, then in this also we are of one will with Him. And this union being founded on a divine reality is eternal.
2. Friendship is not only unity of will, but a mutual goodwill each to each. Amicus alter ego. Sacerdos alter Christus. The will of a friend is not only an austere goodwill, severely just. It is also a kindly will. Sometimes the truest friend is too high and exacting in his wisdom and conduct towards us. We trust him, but shrink from him. Not so our Divine Friend. He is kindly and pitiful; He knows our infirmities, and He meets them with the tenderness of compassion. We know that we are in His hands, and our whole life is ordered by Him. If He chastise us, it is because He loves us. He does not willingly afflict. It is only because affliction is necessary that He wills
