2. Our lives are mostly made up of minor acts, as were the private lives of Jesus, Mary and Joseph, and countless Saints. A Martyr’s crown in Heaven may consist of one brilliant gem, the ruby of his heroic death; but the crowns of most Saints are made up of countless sparkling little diamonds, each the reward of fidelity in a little thing. Thus too in human things, in which perfection depends on minor details. For instance, the politeness of the man who is to the manner born is not displayed in extraordinary actions, but in that delicate tact which makes him know his place, so that he never acts amiss, and always says the right word and does the right thing at the right time. This fidelity is, in spiritual things, what good taste is in literature and the other fine arts. Masterpieces differ from common works in the perfection of the least details; for instance, in sculpture, painting, etc., etc. _POINT III._ It is by fidelity in minor matters that we acquire the solid virtues needed to perform heroic deeds when the occasion calls for them. This is brought about in two ways. _1. Naturally._ Our conduct on all occasions, even the most important, depends to a great extent on the good or evil habits we have acquired. Now habits are acquired by the frequent repetition of acts. It is only in little things that actions can be frequently repeated; for few of us have numerous opportunities to do great things. Therefore our habits, good or bad, are ordinarily the result of our fidelity or infidelity in little things. _2. Supernaturally._ Acts of virtue practised by us obtain for us additional actual graces to practise yet more acts of virtue: and thus faithful souls constantly strengthen the chain of graces which binds them ever more closely to God. Unfaithful souls forfeit these additional helps of grace that were in store for them; and thus their chain of graces is gradually weakened, so that temptations may occur which cause them serious falls into sin. Examine your daily conduct of fidelity to grace. _Colloquy_, according to the sentiments evoked by these considerations. MEDITATION IV The Observance of Our Rules _1st Prelude._ Imagine you see St. Ignatius, as he is often painted, with the book of his Constitutions in his hands. _2nd Prelude._ Beg through his intercession for a high appreciation of our rules. _POINT I. What are the rules of our Society?_ They are a summary of those wonderful Constitutions which the Holy Ghost has used for the conversion and sanctification of countless multitudes of souls during the last four centuries, namely: 1. Of the numerous members of our Society during the successive generations, so many of whom have given evident proofs of having attained heroic sanctity. 2. Of vast numbers of other persons of the clergy and the laity who have been saved and sanctified by the virtues and the labors of the members of our Society.