Synopsis "Within the Soul: Helps in the Spiritual Life (in English)"
n the motto 'Grip fast' we read: "THERE is a pretty story a bout the origin of this motto. The good Queen Margaret of Scotland was one day travelling on horseback with her attendants. She reached the bank of a rapid mountain torrent, which she attempted to cross. Owing to the fright of her palfrey, or the force of the current, she was in imminent danger of being swept away and drowned, when Leslie, Earl of Roth, rushed to her assistance, and, crying to her, "Grip fast," rescued her from her peril. From that time the words, "Grip fast," became the motto of the Leslies. "It is a good motto for anyone to adopt, for it expresses the tenacity of purpose and the perseverance, without which no undertaking of moment can be carried to success. A young man beginning his career might with advantage act in the spirit of it in little actions, as well as in important affairs. It may be confidently asserted that it is more for his interest to be mindful of doing so in what he is often tempted to look upon as trifles, for, if in them he adheres to it, he will acquire a habit which will render a similar fidelity assured in matters of consequence. "The qualities which the motto exacts are not to be found ready made, so to speak, in the character. The rock is pierced by the drop of water that ceaselessly falls upon it, and resolution, self-reliance, and perseverance must be created and nurtured by repeated acts if they are to impart that steadfastness which withstands temptation in the hour of trial. To rise at a reasonably early hour in the morning, to be punctual at meals, to anticipate rather than delay the time for commencing business, to be strict in keeping a deliberate promise, even in small things, to persevere in fidelity to daily religious duties -each of these may not require an heroic effort, but the man who is unfailing on principle in attending to them acquires a strength that one who regards them as bagatelles will never possess, and he will be trusted and honoured by employers and friends. In the momentous truths that help us to serve God, this motto, or the character which it denotes, is especially to be kept in view. The whole success of our career on earth depends, not on material prosperity, wealth, and power, but on the principles which teach the self-denial, courage, and charity that characterize the true follower of Christ. The concluding passage of Mr. Timothy Healy's great speech in the House of Commons during the debate on the second reading of the Education Act (May, 1906) expresses admirably this truth, and I here quote his words: " I would rather that my children understood their religion in preparation for the eternity that is to come, than that they should be rich, prosperous, and educated people in this world. I care very little for your so-called education. I cannot spell myself. I cannot parse an English sentence. I cannot do the rule of three. I am supposed to know a little law, but I think that is a mistake. But there is one thing that I and mine have got a grip of, and that is a belief in the Christ to come, and a belief that our children, whatever be their distress, whatever be their misfortunes, whatever be Their poverty in this world, will receive a rich reward, if, listening to the teaching of Their faith, they put into practice the lessons they receive in the Catholic schools.""
