Practise the small and humble virtues, which, like simple flowers, grow at the foot of the cross.

Lay your hand also to strong things, exercising yourself in prayer and meditation, in the use of the sacraments, in inspiring the love of God in your neighbor, in spreading good inspirations in hearts, and finally in performing great and important works according to your vocation. But at the same time forget not your spindle and distaff; that is, practise the small and humble virtues, which, like simple flowers, grow at the foot of the cross: the service of the poor, the visiting of the sick, the care of your household with all the works that depend thereon, and that precious activity which will not leave you idle for a single moment; and amid all this, occupy yourself from time to time with thoughts like those of Saint Catherine of Siena, of whom I have just spoken to you.