522 PRACTICAL SAYINGS OF ST. ALOYSIUS.
is the reason that some have so little fervour, and give so great scope to their passions.
1. Evangelical perfection is to be acquired by diligence in prayer, and not by other means.
2. As a muddy stream of water ruffled by the wind does not receive or reflect objects, so the soul admits not those of heaven when sullied itself with defects, or agitated by passion.
3. He easily contemns earthly principalities who seriously thinks on an eternal kingdom, in comparison of which crowns and royal robes are like the pageantry of a comedian, which is put off when the farce is ended.
1. Never think thy neighbour worse than thyself; rather, on every occasion, put the best construction upon his actions.
2. He who neglects the spiritual advancement of his neighbour, cannot be said to love God, as not having at heart the increase of his glory.
3. When by sickness thou staudest, as I may say, on the confines of eternity, temporal concerns should be banished from thy memory, and discourses on indifferent subjects, though not displeasing to God, be laid aside, or put off to thy recovery.
1. He who begins to taste how sweet it is to love and serve God, can never be withdrawn from his love and service but by force and
violence.
2. A desire of loving God as much as so amiable a being deserves, and is worthy of our tenderest affections, as also a grief and concern