Aug 19 Sat
To forgive does not mean abstaining from stating the truth, because “we also have a tongue, and we have to write and to speak out whenever God's honor, the reputation of his Church or the good of souls requires it.” But even then, Saint Josemaría stated, “one has to speak or write in a positive fashion, affirming things. Be moderate in defense, objective in stating the facts, and avoid all rhetorical argument. Be clear and firm in doctrine, and very understanding –supernaturally understanding– towards individuals.”
“What must we do in order to be at peace? First, learn to forgive. Always forgive, because what takes away our peace are the little things of pride... And afterwards, accept God's Will. See the Lord behind everything that happens.”
“To forgive is something completely supernatural; it is a divine gift. That sort of mercy is not natural to man. We forgive to the extent to which we share in God's life, to which we try to correspond as far as we can.”
“And so, my dear children, fight hard, and be happy! Serve the Lord with joy! Infect others with this same madness, pray for the whole world, keep sowing the peace and joy of mutual love, because we don't wish evil on anybody. You know that it is part of the spirit of the Work to be prompt to forgive.”
Our Lady will obtain for us the grace we need to love everybody with such affection that we are able to overlook their offenses; and we will make use of those opportunities to ask her Son to forgive us our own sins. Then we will able to tell everybody:
May the road rise to meet you,
May the wind be always at your back,
May the sun shine warm upon your face,
The rains fall soft upon your fields and,
Until we meet again,
May God hold you in the palm of His hand.
May God grant you always…
A sunbeam to warm you,
A moonbeam to charm you,
A sheltering angel, so nothing can harm you.
May the Saints protect you,
And bless you today,
And may troubles ignore you
Each step of the way.
God be on your road every way you go.
May our lives today be filled with God’s compassion; may He give us the spirit of forgiveness and a generous heart.
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