Love in Action

In dealing with our neighbor we should be cordial, foresighted, patient and calm without dejection. (OOCC, XI, p. 322)

St. Vincent Pallotti stressed the importance of making a person’s love for his neighbor in concrete action. There must be a sense of balance in the way one deals with his neighbor. He suggested that in dealing with one’s neighbor, one should be cordial, foresighted, patient, and calm without dejection. First, a person must be cordial with his neighbor. Cordiality consists in being sincere and friendly with one’s neighbor. Second, a person must act with foresight towards his neighbor. It involves knowing the nature and sentiments of the person and acting towards him accordingly. Third, a person must be patient towards his neighbor. Patience implies that a person is unruffled and undisturbed when the behavior of one’s neighbor is unacceptable and unwanted. Fourth, a person must be calm without being dejected. In dealing with his neighbor, a person must maintain a calm and serene profile despite the failures of his neighbor, but must avoid dejection at all cost. Fifth, a person must give attention to his neighbor without flattering him. While taking sufficient care of his neighbor, one must not act towards his neighbor for the purpose of pleasing him. In this manner, a person can reach out to his neighbor with sincere love and care.

How do I express my love for my neighbor? Am I balanced in the way I express my love for my neighbor? Am I cordial, foresighted, patient and calm with my neighbor? Do I avoid flattery in dealing with my neighbor?

Share your bread with the hungry, shelter the oppressed and the homeless; clothe the naked when you see them, and do not turn your back on your own. (Is. 58: 7)