Page 8 - SPIRITUAL EXERCISES 1828

Today I had the inspiration to note down with care all the
defects that I find in myself, during these days of Spiritual
Exercises; then to take one for every week and do my utmost
to uproot it from my heart. If I am allowed, I will do so ...
As I listened to the sermon in honour of Our Lady of Mt.
Carmel, I realized why Our Lord disposed that I should emit
my vow of perpetual Chastity on that feast-day: it was because

in consecrating myself for ever to God, I had to learn from
Mary the way of giving delight to Him, by imitating all Her
virtues and so become a true Bride of His.

SECOND MEDITATION. On my own sins. I was really
scared when I discovered so many sins in myself. I had not
even a notion that I had learnt to offend God. I saw every
single day marred by my sins, especially in my early youth.
And now how lukewarm I am! ... In return for so many graces,
mercies, calls, I offended you, I have greatly offended you.
Indeed, I have used your gifts themselves to offend you with.
But how greatly I admire your patience, my God! What held
you back from flinging me into the depths of hell the very
moment I wronged you? ... All those times I deserved it! ... And

I could now be burning for all eternity in hell, with no hope of
ever coming out of it, had not your merciful love hovered over
me. - My God, how greatly I am indebted to you; a thousand
hearts to love you with are not sufficient. No more sins, my
God, no more!

Resolutions: To revive my fervour and to love God all the

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