Llena Eres de Gracia...

 

 

Dios te salve, Maria. Llena eres de gracia: El Señor es contigo.

Prayer to the Virgin

In seeing You so pure, so tender, and so compassionate, who would not be encouraged to unburden his intimate sufferings to you?

Who would not ask you to be his star on this stormy sea?  Who is there who would not cry in your arms without instantly receiving your immaculate kisses of love and comfort? If he be a sinner, your caresses will soften him.  If one of your devoted ones, your presence would enkindle the living flame of divine love.

If he be poor, you with your powerful hand will aid him and show him his true homeland.
If rich, you will sustain him with your breath against the dangers of his very agitated life.  If one is in affliction, you with your tearful gaze will show him the cross and on it your Divine Son.

Who will not find balm for his pains by considering the torments of Jesus and Mary? The sick man finds in your maternal heart the water of salvation that allows your enchanting smile to blossom forth, and makes him smile with love and happiness.

-- St. Teresa of the Andes