Better versioning of the self
If we put bits into the mouths of horses to make them obey us, we also guide their whole bodies. It is the same with ships: even though they are so large and driven by fierce winds, they are steered by a very small rudder wherever the pilot’s inclination wishes.
– James 3:3-4
It is easy to think there is one solution for everyone and for all the problems in the world. As Catholics, though, this would mean denying parts of ourselves.
Next night, the Lord appeared to him and said, ‘Courage! You have borne witness for me in Jerusalem, now you must do the same in Rome.’
– Acts 23:11
Were a man to offer all the wealth of his house to buy love, contempt is all he would purchase.
– Song of Songs 8:6-7
Do not let your love be a pretence, but sincerely prefer good to evil. Love each other as much as brothers should, and have a profound respect for each other. Work for the Lord with untiring effort and with great earnestness of spirit. If you have hope, this will make you cheerful. Do not give up if trials come; and keep on praying. If any of the saints are in need you must share with them; and you should make hospitality your special care.
Bless those who persecute you: never curse them, bless them. Rejoice with those who rejoice and be sad with those in sorrow. Treat everyone with equal kindness; never be condescending but make real friends with the poor.
– Romans 12:9-16
Therefore it is an excellent and fruitful custom of holy Church that we should sing Mary’s hymn at the time of evening prayer. By meditating upon the incarnation, our devotion is kindled, and by remembering the example of God’s Mother, we are encouraged to lead a life of virtue. Such virtues are best achieved in the evening. We are weary after the day’s work and worn out by our distractions. The time for rest is near, and our minds are ready for contemplation.
– from a sermon by St Bede the Venerable
The Lord is the living stone, rejected by men but chosen by God and precious to him; set yourselves close to him so that you too, the holy priesthood that offers the spiritual sacrifices which Jesus Christ has made acceptable to God, may be living stones making a spiritual house.
– 1 Peter 2:4-5
There was a lot of promise in the idea. Let a bunch of writers loose into Marlowe’s Los Angeles. After all, he would be their lens. Except that in Raymond Chandler’s Phillip Marlow: A Centennial Celebration, Marlowe is transformed into a mirror that reflects the lesser talents of the collection’s authors.