To Dominican Sister Maria Margherita Stoli, Rome

E II, 950

Advice for a fervent spiritual life

Turin, 22 July 1866

Dear Sister,

Lukewarmness, when not promoted by the will, is totally blameless. In fact, I believe that such lukewarmness, which is called dryness of spirit, is meritorious before the Lord.

However, if you want some matches that spark flames of fire, I find them in prayers of fervour to the Blessed Sacrament, a few visits to the same, kissing the medal or the crucifix. But more than anything else, the thought that the tribulations, pains and dryness of time are like fragrant roses for eternity.

I will not fail to commend you humbly to the Lord during Holy Mass, and in commending myself and my poor young people to the charity of your holy prayers, I have the honour of being able to profess that with sincere gratitude I am

your most obliged servant,

Fr John Bosco