Choose a topic from Part 2B:

157. Clemency and Meekness

1. Clemency is the virtue which moderates the anger of asuperior in punishing, or passing sentence upon, one who is subjectto him. Meekness is the virtue which moderates anger in aperson's own soul. Therefore clemency and meekness are notidentical, although they appear very similar.

2. Moral virtues, or will-virtues, bring the appetitesunder the control of reason. It is clear that both clemency andmeekness are moral virtues.

3. Clemency and meekness are aligned with the virtue oftemperance, and are thus parts of that cardinalvirtue.

4. Moral virtues are not so great, in point of nobilityand excellence, as the theological virtues of supernatural faith,hope, and charity. Hence clemency and meekness are not the greatestof virtues. Nor are they so great as the virtues of prudence,justice, and fortitude.

"God gives us some things, as the beginning of faith, even when we do not pray. Other things, such as perseverance, he has only provided for those who pray."
St Augustine

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"God commands not impossibilities, but by commanding he suggests to you to do what you can, to ask for what is beyond your strength; and he helps you, that you may be able."
St Augustine

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"Lord, here burn, here cut, and dry up in me all that hinders me from going to You, that You may spare me in eternity."
St Louis Bertrand

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