Page:TheYoungMansGuide.djvu/327

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5. The Blessed Baldomer has taught us by his example how one's daily work may be begun and ended in a manner pleasing to God. He was a locksmith, and employed numerous apprentices. He was much given to prayer, and a lover of work. As a master he held fast to the ancient and admirable custom of beginning everything with God. He arose each morning with his mind on God, and invariably performed his morning devotions with scrupulous care, remembering the old and most true saying, that everything depends on the blessing of God.

He was a daily attendant at Mass, for he bore in mind the divine promise: "Seek ye therefore first the kingdom of God and his justice, and all these things shall be added unto you." "In the name of God," he said as he began his work, and then hammered away busily, until evening came, and after the burden and toil of the day, he laid his tools aside with a heartfelt ejaculation of, "Thanks be to God!" In. this way Baldomer not only gained a fortune, but accumulated a treasure of merit for eternity.

6. Do you also work in a similar fashion. Employ yourself usefully at every moment of the day, in order that the devil "who goeth about as a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour," may never find you idle. This is the best way to spoil his little game. Once more let me exhort you: Be very careful to perform your work with a good intention, and in a state of grace. Also strive to be always patient, in order that one day you may purchase, with