30. DIVINE WISDOM IN OUR VARIOUS LOTS.
30. DIVINE WISDOM IN OUR VARIOUS LOTS.
The wisdom of the gardener is seen in the cultivation of his plants; some he sets in the sun, others in the shade; some in a rich, fertile soil, others in a dry and barren ground; and thus the gardener's skill is conspicuous, for each thrives best in its own soil.
Then, since Infinite Wisdom has allotted a great part of my life to sorrow and solitude (not that I complain) I realize that I could not grow well in another soil.
Behind the high wall of adversity, and in the shade of affliction, the saints will bring forth fruits of humility, self-denial, resignation and patience. These graces cannot grow so well in the sun-beams of prosperity.
Now, if another soil would be more agreeable to my spiritual growth, the heavenly farmer would soon transplant me there. It does not matter, though I grow in the shade—if the Sun of righteousness shines on my soul, and makes every grace to flourish.
He knows better what lot is best for me, than I do myself. In choosing it for me, I should rather admire his wisdom, than complain of his conduct; the more so, when I consider that on a barren soil, and in a lonely shade, he can cultivate plants that shall bask in the eternal beams of glory!