'In the matter of piety, poverty serves us better than
wealth, and work better than idleness, especially since wealth becomes
an obstacle even for those who do not devote themselves to it. Yet, when
we must put aside our wrath, quench our envy, soften our anger, offer
our prayers, and show a disposition which is reasonable, mild, kindly,
and loving, how could poverty stand in our way? For we accomplish these
things not by spending money but by making the correct choice.
Almsgiving above all else requires money, but even this shines with a
brighter luster when the alms are given from our poverty. The widow who
paid in the two mites was poorer than any human, but she outdid them
all.'
