1. “Love your enemies, but keep a sharp sword.” This proverb encourages forgiveness and compassion, but also cautions against being naïve or passive. It suggests that one should be prepared to defend oneself if necessary, but to always seek peace and reconciliation first.
2. “The fool speaks, the wise man listens.” This proverb advises us to be humble and open-minded, to value the opinions and insights of others, and to refrain from speaking impulsively or without due consideration.
3. “He who takes advice is wise, even if he does not follow it.” This proverb acknowledges that we do not always know what is best for us, and encourages us to seek guidance and counsel from others. It reminds us that being receptive to advice is a sign of wisdom and maturity, even if we ultimately decide to go our own way.
4. “A single candle can light a thousand more.” This proverb speaks to the power of influence and the potential for one person to make a difference in the world. It encourages us to live our lives with purpose and intention, knowing that even small acts of kindness or bravery can have a ripple effect that inspires others to do the same.
5. “To know the road ahead, ask those coming back.” This proverb emphasizes the importance of learning from the experiences of others, especially those who have already traveled a path we are about to embark on. It reminds us that we do not need to reinvent the wheel, but can benefit from the wisdom and insight of those who have gone before us.
These Proverbs of Saint Blaise offer timeless wisdom and practical advice for living a good life. They remind us to be humble and open-minded, to seek guidance and counsel from others, to value the power of influence, to be prepared for both peace and conflict, and to learn from the experiences of those who have gone before us. Saint Blaise may have lived over 1,500 years ago, but his words still ring true today and offer valuable insights for navigating the challenges and opportunities of life. So the next time you are faced with a difficult decision or a challenging situation, consider the Proverbs of Saint Blaise and let his wisdom guide you.