Why are we full of resentment at our lot? However happy, we always want more. I would have loved to have had a chance to do more in government. It has not happened.

I mentioned this to a priest: he gave me good advice. The Holy Spirit, least regarded of the Trinity, is the fire, the pilot light of perseverance that keeps going. Keep plodding on, said the priest. Ask the Holy Spirit for help.

Start every day with this prayer: “Come Holy Spirit, be my best friend. Fill my heart and enkindle it with the fire of your love.”

And at the end of the day say: “Holy Spirit, how did we get on?”