Do not grieve the Spirit of God

Guard against foul talk; let your words be for the improvement of others, as occasion offers, and do good to your listeners, otherwise you will only be grieving the Holy Spirit of God who has marked you with his seal for you to be set free when the day comes. Never have grudges against others, or lose your temper, or raise your voice to anybody, or call each other names, or allow any sort of spitefulness. Be friends with one another, and kind, forgiving each other as readily as God forgave you in Christ.

--Ephesians 4:29-32

Be kind to each other.--I prefer you make mistakes in kindness--than that you work miracles in unkindness. Be kind in words.--See what the kindness of our Lady brought to her, see how she spoke. She could have easily told St Joseph of the Angel's message--yet she never uttered a word.--And then God Himself interfered. She kept all these in her heart.--Would that we could keep all our words in her heart. So much suffering--so much misunderstanding, for what? Just for one word--one look--one quick action--and darkness fills the heart of your Sister. Ask our Lady during this novena to fill your heart with sweetness.

(Blessed Mother Teresa, Come Be My Light, p 196)

This year I have often been impatient and even sometimes harsh in my remarks--and I have noticed each time I have done the Sisters less good--I always got more from them when I am kind.

(Blessed Mother Teresa, Come Be My Light, p 160)