St. Catherine of Siena says: “Praise be to Jesus.”

“Please regard the oyster I am holding. On the outside, the shell is rough – unattractive; but on the inside, if you search you might discover a precious pearl. It is so with souls, as well. Often the roughness of character that presents itself outwardly belies the empathy, wisdom and Holy Love that is below the surface.”

“Think, as well, about the present moment. Too often it presents itself as difficult, unattractive and filled with obstacles. Yet, I tell you, just as the oyster holds secret treasures, every present moment holds the grace of salvation, personal holiness – even sanctification. No present moment is devoid of grace. Every present moment comes wrapped in God's Will just as the little pearl, deep in the oyster, is God's Will.”