In the name of Our Lord, Monsieur, do all you can to regain your health and take good care of it so that you can serve God and the poor for a longer time. This moderate care does not preclude the obligation we have of generously risking our lives when the salvation of our neighbor is concerned.
Vincent de PaulThere is nothing good that does not meet with opposition, and it should not be valued any less because it encounters objections.
Vincent de PaulGood works are often spoiled by moving too quickly. . . . The good which God desires is accomplished almost by itself, without our even thinking of it.
Vincent de PaulUse gentle methods to get whatever good you can from priests and monks who are slaves, as well as from merchants and captives. Resort to severe measures only in extreme cases, for fear lest the hardship they are already enduring in their state of captivity, joined to the strictness you might want to exercise in virtue of your authority, drive them to despair. . . . It is not light they need, but strength, and strength permeates through the external balm of words and good example.
Vincent de PaulDo not be afraid of undertaking too much of what you can do without coming and going; but fear only the thought of doing more than you are doing and more than God is giving you the means to do.
Vincent de Paul