One of the more serious temptations which stifles
boldness and zeal is a defeatism which turns us into querulous and
disillusioned pessimists, “sourpusses”. Nobody can go off to battle unless he
is fully convinced of victory beforehand. If we start without confidence, we
have already lost half the battle and we bury our talents. While painfully
aware of our own frailties, we have to march on without giving in, keeping in
mind what the Lord said to Saint Paul: “My grace is sufficient for you, for my
power is made perfect in weakness” (2 Cor 12:9).
--Pope Francis Evangelii Gaudium #85, November 24, 2013
