To cleric Giovanni Beraldi

E IX, 4258

“Do not worry if I do not write to you: I am now unable to do so because of my physical ailments. I am almost blind, and almost unable to walk, write or speak. What can you do? I am old, and God's will be done. But every day I pray for you and for all my sons.”

S. Benigno Canavese, 5 October 1885

My dear Cl. Beraldi,

I was very pleased to receive your letter in August.

Do not be upset if I do not write to you: I am now unable to do so because of my physical ailments. I am almost blind and almost unable to walk, write or speak. What can you do? I am old, and God's will be done.

However, I pray for you every day, and for all my children, and I want everyone to serve the Lord willingly with holy joy, even in the midst of difficulties and diabolical disturbances; these will be dispelled with the sign of the Holy Cross, with Jesus, Mary, mercy, with long live Jesus and above all by despising them, and with vigilate et orate and by fleeing idleness and every opportunity that arises.

As for scruples, only obedience to your Rector and your Superiors can make them disappear; therefore, do not forget that vir obediens loquetur victoriam.

I approve of your promoting devotion to the Blessed Sacrament.

Do your best to be and make your pupils true devotees of the Blessed Sacrament and lovers of Jesus in the Sacrament, and with time and patience, Deo juvante, you will work wonders.

Take courage, then. Do and endure everything to please God, to do his holy will, and you will prepare for yourself a treasure of merits for blessed eternity.

You will not lack the support of my prayers. May God bless you, bless all your pupils, and may Mary Most Holy protect and guide you all on the path to heaven.

Pray also for your old friend and father

Affectionately in J. and M.

Abbé J. Bosco