May 22
Gillyflower or Viola
The gillyflower or Viola is one of those that burst open first at the beginning
of the beautiful season of spring; with good soil, fertilizer, water and
favourable climate it bears an abundance of fabulous flowers. Its cultivation
is not delicate. It is very varied in its colours, which are always maintained
in its species.
Abstinence and sobriety
These virtues moderate a person in eating and in drinking and are
supported by fasting. They are attacked by gluttony and drunkenness. Abstinence
and sobriety go together. Plant it side by side and touching its plant in the
same heart, one will fertilize the other, and the double and simple flower will
form a most fragrant and beautiful bouquet.
Floral offering to Mary
Mary, I offer you a bouquet of (viola) purple gillyflower, symbol of my
abstinence and sobriety. I promise to fight with these weapons against gluttony
and its five daughters: vain joy, non-sense jokes, filth, talkativeness and
stupidity. Receive, Oh Mary, this offering and strengthen my intentions.
Recite five Hail Marys
Invitation: Be moderate in
eating and drinking: take the golden mean. The rule is to attend to the needs
of life. Eat and drink moderately at a fixed schedule, not excessive. Abstain
from sumptuousness, grandeur, useless and superfluous expenditures in parties
and banquets.
Text: Mes de Maria - Francisco Palau, OCD - CM Founder
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