Against These Feeble Assaults

'Little temptations to anger, suspicion, jealousy, envy, flirtation, vanity, frivolity, duplicity, affectation, deceit, unchaste thoughts - these are the trials that even the most devout and resolute must constantly face.  Therefore, Philothea, we have to prepare ourselves for this battle with great care and diligence.  Be sure that, for all our victories over these little enemies, as many precious stones will be set in the crown of glory which God prepares for us in heaven.  Because of this, I repeat, while being ready to fight against great temptations when they come, we must defend ourselves well and diligently against these little and feeble assaults.'  (St. Francis de Sales, Introduction to the Devout Life)

Painting:  Womanhood, 1925, Thomas Edwin Mostyn