Be Gentle

"One is often carried away over the sins and short comings of others. It would be far better to talk less about them and to pray more." St. John Vianney 

 If I expect people to be who they claim to be, them I have to expect the same for myself. 

If I expect others to forgive, then I have to be forgiving.

I must pray for the desire to forgive and for the desire to be forgiven! 

St. Maria Goretti, pray for us! 

If I expect charity, than I need to be charitable. 

I must seek the best in everyone. 

St. Vincent de Paul, pray for us! 

If I want to be treated gently then I myself need to be gentle. 

 When ridiculed, we bless, when persecuted, we endure; when slandered, we respond gently. 1 Corinthians 4:12-13 

Blessed Mother Mary, pray for us and guide us! 

God of mercy and truth, You gave us the ability to speak, so that we might glorify You and encourage our brothers and sisters. Help me overcome my tendency to speak unkindly about others and to criticize those around me. Teach me instead praise, to encourage, to defend, and to say only those things I myself would want to hear from someone else. Form within me the habit of praying for help in overcoming those faults I observe and of speaking respectfully to those with whom I disagree. Please give me also the courage to accept criticism by responding calmly, while honestly considering whether their remarks contain wisdom and truth. May all my words be pleasing to You and beneficial to those who hear them. Amen. Saintly Solutions 

Image by Michael Fenton