They who set out to sail unfurl the sails at first when they encounter a favorable wind but then undo it when an adverse wind comes at them; the sailors do not discharge the ship because the wind is against them. They wait quietly for a while or wrestle with the storm, then they sail on again. So it is with us; when an adverse wind is against us, let us complete our voyage without fear, having unfurled the cross instead of a sail.
–Saint Synkletike (a Desert Mother) (d. 350)
See that you are not suddenly saddened by the adversities of this world, for you do not know the good they bring, being ordained in the judgments of God for the everlasting joy of the elect.
–Saint John of the Cross (1542-1591)
He who wishes to avoid future troubles should endure his present troubles gladly. For in this way, balancing the one against the other, through small sufferings he will avoid those which are great.
–Saint Mark the Ascetic (Fifth Century)
Let your understanding strengthen your patience. In serenity look forward to the joy that follows sadness.
–Saint Peter Damian (1007-1072)
Don’t be discouraged by anxieties and troubles. Life is full of them.
–Saint John Baptist de la Salle (1651-1719)
It is above all on days of weariness, sickness, impatience, temptation, spiritual dryness, and trials, during hours of sometimes terrible anguish which press upon a soul, that holy abandonment is pleasing to God.
–Blessed Columba Marmion (1858-1923)
