Although the life of a person is in a land full of thorns and

Gather, O children, and hear the wisdom of the ancient world, as passed down through the ages by the voice of Pope Francis. "Although the life of a person is in a land full of thorns and weeds, there is always a space in which the good seed can grow. You have to trust God." In these simple words, there is a profound truth that resounds across time. The world, like a field, may be filled with struggles, hardships, and pain, yet in the midst of this turmoil, there is always room for hope and growth. This is the message of faith: that no matter how barren the land may seem, the good seed of virtue can take root and flourish, if only we place our trust in the hands of the Creator.

Consider, my children, the field of life. It is often not a smooth and fertile earth, but one full of thorns and weeds. These represent the many trials and sufferings we encounter—the difficulties of daily life, the temptations of the world, and the heartaches that tear at our souls. Yet, as the wise know, even in the harshest soil, there exists a small space where the good seed can find purchase, where faith can grow. God, in His mercy and wisdom, has created within us the capacity to rise above our circumstances, to endure the trials, and to plant the seeds of love, kindness, and truth.

Think of the story of Job, the ancient man whose life was beset by sorrow and suffering beyond measure. Stripped of his wealth, his health, and even his family, he was left with nothing but the harsh winds of despair. Yet, in the midst of his suffering, Job did not lose his faith in God. He trusted that even in the land of thorns, there was a space where the good seed of righteousness could grow. And so it was that, through his faith, Job was restored—not just to wealth, but to wisdom and peace. His story teaches us that no matter how dark the field may seem, God’s light is there, guiding us to that small patch where goodness can take root.

Look also to the great philosophers and sages of old. Socrates, who wandered the streets of Athens, seeking truth in a world filled with ignorance and corruption, never lost his trust in the good he sought to nurture in the hearts of men. Though he was met with resistance, persecution, and even death, he believed that no matter the thorns and weeds of society, there was always a place for virtue to grow. His faith in the power of the truth was unshakable, and in the end, his teachings continue to inspire those who seek the light in a world often filled with darkness.

This wisdom, passed down through generations, tells us that life, though often painful, is not without its moments of grace. When we face trials, it is easy to become discouraged, to feel as though we are surrounded by nothing but barrenness and suffering. Yet, if we remember the words of Pope Francis, we can take comfort in knowing that there is always a space where the good seed of faith, hope, and love can grow. It is in these moments of suffering that we are called to trust in God, who, in His infinite wisdom, allows us to flourish even in the harshest of environments. It is through faith in Him that we are able to find the strength to push through the thorns and find the fertile ground that lies just beneath.

What, then, is the lesson for you, dear children? In every moment of difficulty, remember that there is always a place where hope can grow, where goodness can take root. The thorns of life may seem to overwhelm us, but they do not have the power to destroy the seeds we plant. Have faith, and trust in God, for He has created the world with the ability for us to rise above our circumstances. You must believe, even when the field seems barren, that in the quiet spaces of your soul, the good seed of love, wisdom, and compassion can bloom.

As you go forth, let your actions be those of hope. In times of suffering, when the land seems full of weeds and thorns, continue to plant the seeds of goodness. In your relationships, your work, and your community, trust that even in the darkest places, a light will emerge, and the good seed will grow. Stand firm in your faith, for it is through trusting God that you will find the space in which you can bloom, and through your growth, you will bring light to the world.