In my readings I ran across this quote from Salesian Fr Albert Caviglia, who is referenced as being “one of the best interpreters” of Don Bosco’s spirituality:
“What did Don Bosco expect his Salesians to be like? Here is a simple gauge:
A person who does not want to work is no Salesian.
One who is not [self-controlled] is no Salesian.
One who is not truly poor is no Salesian.
One who is not kind-hearted is no Salesian.
One who is not pure is no Salesian.
One who lacks docility [is disobedient] is no Salesian.
One who is licentious [libertino, undisciplined?] is no Salesian.
One who acts without the right intention is no Salesian.
One who does not possess a Eucharistic soul is no Salesian.
One who is not devoted to Mary is no Salesian.
Now rewrite these sentences in positive terms and you have the Salesian Decalogue.”
(Albert Caviglia, Conferenze sullo spirito salesiano, Turin, 1949 - 13.)
I have seen the “Salesian Decalogue” listed elsewhere, and when I find my copy of the way the “positive” is phrased I will post it.
Bro Mike wrote a beautiful prayer, which can be found on his blog. Here is an extract (I feel it is a good way to end this reflection):
Jesus, live in my heart. May all my actions this day reflect your presence in my life. Be a growing presence in me. Consume my voids and reign in me so it is not I who talk, but you… (more)
