§ 6. Judgment of Others.

Interpret favourably, as far as possible, the actions and words of others. Think not ill of others lightly. When evil and absurd suspicions of any one arise in thy heart, let them immediately pass out of it again; suffer them to fly past thee. And although thou sometimes fear lest the devil seduce a man, or lest some evil lurk in him; believe not yet for certain that evil does lie hid, if it is not thoroughly ascertained by thee. In this manner refrain from rash judgments; and be not foolishly curious in observing the defects of others, but watch for thy own defects, and judge thyself.

Meddle not improperly with those things which are not committed to thy charge; but leave them in their own state and condition. Let good things be good; 127but evil things judge not readily, leaving them to be judged by God, who sees clearly the hearts of men, and perfectly knows whatever is evil. He who will interfere in all affairs, and loquaciously reprove and judge all things, is far removed from true knowledge of himself, and from true peace and purity of heart, and has not yet reached the very beginnings of the spiritual life.

Accustom thyself to live without many complainings. If thou must often complain, complain to God, or to the Blessed Virgin Mary, or the other Saints; setting before them humbly and calmly those things that oppress and grieve thee.