Last night and the night before I could not write a thing, because of a violent toothache. Although this gave me the chance to suffer something for Jesus, it also took up too much of my thoughts.

If I had a little peace of mind, tomorrow I should have to submit to those penalties which I laid down for myself, since I have not satisfactorily carried out those two most important practices of piety; the visit and the rosary.

And then, to tell the truth, I might just as well not be taking part in this Novena, I am doing it so badly.

So, more devotion is needed; not great and extraordinary achievements but great perfection in everyday matters and above all union with Jesus, and Mary ever in my thoughts…. ‘Journal of a Soul’ Pope John XXIII

Young Pope John XXIII