How great was the shock to Mary’s heart at hearing the sorrowful words, in which holy Simeon told her the bitter Passion and death of her sweet Jesus, since in that same moment she realized in him and all the insults, blows, and torments which the impious men were to offer to the Redeemer of the world. But a still sharper sword pierced her soul. It was the thought of men’s ingratitude to her beloved Son. Now consider that because of thy sins thou art unhappily among the ungrateful, and casting thyself at the feet of the Mother of Dolors, say with sorrow: Virgin beloved, who didst feel so bitter pangs of soul at seeing the abuse which I, wretch that I am, would make of the Blood of thy dear Son, obtain for me, I pray thee, by thy riven heart, that in time to come I may better correspond to God’s mercies, profit by His heavenly grace, receive not in vain his lights and inspirations, and so be among the blessed number of those who are saved by the bitter passion of Jesus. Amen.