but for the enjoyment of expected blessings. For hopes, which hold and weld together man’s entire life, give consolation for the hardships which fall to the lot of each of these. Basil the Great Saints spring and thrive most internally, when they are most externally afflicted. Afflictions are the mother of virtue. Thomas Brooks In times of affliction we commonly meet with the sweetest experiences of the love of God. John Bunyan Blessed is he who bears affliction with thankfulness. Abba Copres Through