Know, also, that to gain a quicker and easier conquest over your enemies, it is expedient, nay, necessary, that the conflict should be carried on daily, and especially the conflict with self-love; learn to receive, therefore, as dear friends, all the slights and insults which the world can heap upon you.
From our want of attention to this strife, and from making it of too little account, it frequently happens, as I have said before, that our victories are few and imperfect, are hardly won, and are not lasting.
Further, I warn you that you must fight with great steadfastness of purpose. And this gift you will easily gain, if you seek it by prayer; and if, when on the one hand you take into account the endless hatred and rage of your enemies, and the vast number of their squadrons and armies: you, on the other hand, consider how infinitely greater is the Goodness of God, and the love with which He loves you, and how much mightier too are the Angels of Heaven, and the prayers of the Saints, who are fighting on our side.
Animated by these reflections, how many, many poor weak women have resisted and overcome all the power and wisdom of the world, all the assaults of the flesh, and all the fury of Hell!
Therefore, you need never be disheartened,
