May 10th
Chapter Seven of the Imitation of Mary, by Thomas a Kempis
The Greatness and Privileges of Mary

In order to succeed in knowing, at least in part, the greatness and dignity of the virgin Mary, note briefly the eminent graces with which God has clothed her, while exalting her above angels and saints in heaven and above all men on earth.

By testimony of the Holy Scripture Mary was from all time, and will be always, the holiest virgin among all virgins, the most beautiful woman among all women, the sweetest mother among all mothers, the purest daughter among all daughters, the gentlest mistress among all mistresses, the most illustrious queen among all queens.

In her are found again assembled, dwelling and shining with an unequalled brilliance, all virginal beauty and all virtuous charm, all divine thought and all the love of the heart, every virtuous work and every fruit of sanctity.

O Mary, Star that shines in the sky, Virgin, Queen of Heaven, Sovereign of the World, no woman can be compared with you, no matter with whatever virtues heaven may have adorned her, because you are unique in the midst of the elect.

O Miracle ineffable, O joy unhoped for!  This Son of the Living God to save the universe becomes your Son, and you are His mother!

Thus you became our mediatrix, and the mediatrix of the entire world.  O Mary, the  most beautiful of all women, let the whole world glorify you, honor you, sing to you, and love you!  May every creature repeat your praises in heaven and on earth, now and forever.