On the Face of Suffering

Suffering Mother,
you have been called
for centuries.

And with good reason,
for your suffering
was beyond description.

Your heart,
pierced with the sword,
makes us remember vividly
that you are also a teacher
on how to suffer
with the proper disposition.

So teach me
to bear suffering
with fortitude,
to endure it
with a vision of eternity,
with a hope
associated to the reconciling Cross
of your Son,
the sweet Lord Jesus,
of which you give
such a wonderful example.

I venture to think
that the mystery of your suffering
was overwhelming at times,
just as today
I feel overwhelmed.

So please help me
with your powerful intercession,
and obtain the grace
that shall allow me to learn
and live
your example
and lessons intensely.
Amen.