Chapter 34: Fair provision for the needs of all

This principle from Scripture should be established in the monastery, namely that distribution was made to each in accordance with their needs. This, however, should not be taken to mean that favouritism of individuals can be tolerated; far from it. It should simply be a way of showing proper consideration for needs arising from individual weakness. (From Ch. 34 of Saint Benedict's Rule, trans. by Patrick Barry, OSB, 1997.)

Compassion for the weaknesses of others leads to compassion for my own weaknesses -- or vice versa, as it is probably not a linear process. And the same is true of finding and respecting unexpected strengths in others and in myself. This is the Gospel vision that creates relationships that are mutually supportive and transformative.