I gave my back to those who strike.
And my cheeks to those who pull out my beard.
How hard it is to love those we do not like.
To be loved rather than admired or feared.I hid not my face from disgrace and spitting.
Therefore I have not been disgraced.
Accepting glory or ignominy, whatever is fitting.
Trusting acceptance firmly placed.

St Bernadette is our example of humility.
As she herself said, like a broom used and put back in a corner
But used by what an extraordinary Marian spiritual entity.

Weak in life but clad forever in eternal armour.

Who will contend with me.
Let him come near me.

……

To those who strike me
I just gave my back humbly
But do we do it

…..

See Isaiah 50 : 4-9a