footprints—diffusing a divine sweetness. . . . I have but to glance at the holy Gospels and immediately I inhale the fragrance of the life of Jesus, and I know which side to take. Not to the first place do I run but to the last. I let the Pharisee go up, and full of confidence I repeat the humble prayer of the publican. Above all I copy the example of Magdalene; her amazing, or rather, her loving audacity, which so touched the Heart of Jesus, charms my own.
HIST. D'UNE AME, CH. XI
With a simplicity that delights me
my little Sisters, the novices, tell me of
the interior combats I arouse in them,
in what way they find me trying; they
are no more embarrassed than if it were
question of some one else, knowing that
by acting thus, they greatly please me.
Ah! truly it is more than a pleasure, it is a delicious feast which replenishes my soul with joy. How can a thing so disagreeable to nature give such happi-