19. So we see how grave a matter it is to deprive
another, with whom we ought rather to suffer, of anything, or to act
unfairly or injuriously towards one to whom we ought to give a share in
our services. This is a true law of nature, which binds us to
show all kindly feeling, so that we should all of us in turn help one
another, as parts of one body, and should never think of depriving
another of anything, seeing it is against the law of nature even to
abstain from giving help. We are born in such a way that limb
combines with limb, and one works with another, and all assist each
other in mutual service. But if one fails in its duty, the rest
are hindered. If, for instance, the hand tears out the eye, has
it not hindered the use of its work? If it were to wound the
foot, how many actions would it not prevent? But how much worse
is it for the whole man to be drawn aside from his duty than for one of
the members only! If the whole body is injured in one member, so
also is the whole community of the human race disturbed in one
man. The nature of mankind is injured, as also is the society of
the holy Church, which rises into one united body, bound together in
oneness of faith and love. Christ the Lord, also, Who died for
all, will grieve that the price of His blood was paid in vain.