… On the 7th of December 1943 I went to church alone. There was a violent storm outside. It really gave me the impression that I had the world against me.

… A small kneeler had been prepared for me before the altar, and I had a tiny missal in my hands. The priest had me pronounce the formula to give myself completely to God forever. I was so happy that I probably didn’t even realize what I was doing, maybe because I was young. However, when I pronounced the formula, I had the impression that a bridge was falling behind me and that I could no longer turn back because now I belonged entirely to God, therefore, I could no longer choose. At this point, a tear fell on the tiny missal.

But my happiness was immense! Do you know why? I was marrying God, and I expected every possible good. It would be fantastic! It would be a divine, extraordinary adventure! I was marrying God! And then we saw that it was really like this.

… What is my advice? I would give this advice to myself: we have only one life. Let’s aim high. Let’s aim high. Let’s risk everything to gain everything. It’s worth it, it’s worth it. … But as far as you are concerned, make this act of generosity: aim high, don’t hold back!

Excerpt taken from Chiara Lubich, The fourth way, 30 December 1984
Photo: © Horacio Conde – CSC Audiovisivi