The practice of Humility - 23

If you encounter some adversity, bless the Lord who has disposed things thus for your good; think that you deserve it all, and more, and that you are unworthy of every consolation.  With all simplicity, ask the Lord to free you from these hardships, if it is his will; otherwise, ask him to give you strength to draw merit from this difficulty.

In time of trial, do not seek external consolation, especially when you know that God sent this adversity to humiliate you and break your pride and presumption; rather, say with the royal prophet: “It is good for me to be afflicted, so that I may learn your decrees” (Ps 119:71).

J. Pecci (later Pope Leo XIII)