A Medieval Mystic’s To-Do List
- When you pray, be humble.
- When you confess, be honest.
- When you do penance, do it indefatigably.
- When you eat, be sensible.
- When you sleep, be disciplined.
- When you are alone, be faithful.
- When you are with others, be discreet.
- When someone teaches you good manners, be receptive.
- When someone reprimands you for your mistakes, be patient.
- When you do something bad, ask forgiveness immediately.
- When you are full of self-absorbed pride, fear for the health of your soul.
- When you are sad, trust in God completely.
- When you are doing manual work, work hard.
- because hard work drives off every evil thought.
-– Mechthild of Magdeburg (Thirteenth Century)
