Chapter 31: The qualities required by the cellarer (paragraphs 2-3)

Among the most important qualities the cellarer needs to cultivate is humility and the ability to give a pleasant answer even when a request must be refused. Remember how scripture says that a kindly word is of greater value that a gift, however precious. (From para. 2 of Ch. 31 of Saint Benedict's Rule, trans. by Patrick Barry, OSB, 1997.)

St. Benedict teaches me that the spirit of service requires humility -- to truly know myself. The spirit of service also requires kindness, to truly see others and accept them as they are. Such kindness casts out fear. Such kindness directs the hearts of giver and receiver into right relationship.