List of points

Don't worry if people say you have esprit de corps. What do they want? A brittle instrument, that falls to pieces the moment it is grasped?

You realise you are weak. And so indeed you are. In spite of that — rather, Just because of that — God has chosen you.

He always uses inadequate instruments, so that the 'work' will be seen to be his.

Of you, he only asks docility.

Why do you overlook those corners of your heart? As long as you don't 'give yourself' completely, you can't expect to win over others.

What a poor instrument you are!

Be an instrument of gold or steel, or iron or platinum,… big or small, rough or delicate.

All are useful; each one serves its own purpose. As in material things: would anyone dare assert that the carpenter's saw is less useful than the surgeon's scapel?

Your duty is to be an instrument.

Well, so what? I can't understand how you want to give up that apostolic work — unless your motive is hidden pride: you think yourself perfect — just because God's fire that attracted you and so often gives the light and warmth that arouse your enthusiasm, should also at times produce the smoke due to the weakness of the instrument.

There is work in plenty. The instruments cannot be left to grow rusty. There are also norms to avoid the mildew and the rust. Just put them into practice.

Get rid of those proud thoughts: you are but the brush in the hand of the artist. And nothing more.

Tell me: of what use is a brush, if it won't let the painter do his work?

Obey, as an instrument obeys in the hands of an artist, not stopping to consider the reasons for what it is doing, being sure that you will never be directed to do anything that is not good and for the glory of God.'

So you couldn't care less? Don't try to fool yourself. This very moment, if I were to ask you about certain people and undertakings in which for God's love you put your soul, I know that you would answer me eagerly, with the interest of one speaking of what is his own.

It's not true that you don't care. It's just that you're not tireless, and that you need more time for yourself: time that will also be for your activities since, after all, you are the instrument.

I've been told that you have the 'knack' of drawing souls to your way.

It's a gift to thank God for; to be an instrument for seeking instruments!