The pain of sense and the pain of loss have each of them an almost indefinite number of degrees. The pain of sense varies in proportion to the indulgence of the senses on earth, and the knowledge possessed of the sinfulness of this indulgence. All the advantages and graces that they have received will but add to their punishment, in as far as they have wilfully thrown away those golden opportunities of self-conquest.

The pain of loss, too, will vary according to the degree of holiness which was within their reach. All will experience their greatest suffering from the loss of God, but with some the loss, however great in itself, will be felt far less sensibly. It is those who were called to a high sanctity, to whom God revealed Himself with a special intimacy of love on earth, who will appreciate most intensely the misery of separation from Him. What reason then I have to tremble!

Each of these two kinds of pain will gradually be assuaged as time goes on. They will be worst at first, and will diminish little by little as the debt to be paid becomes lighter. This mitigation will be hastened on by the prayers and good works offered for the Holy Souls on earth, by the supplications of the Church, and above all, by the Sacrifice of the Mass. How much we may do for those who are suffering for their sins! Pray that you may earn a speedy relief.