May 8th
Chapter Five of the Imitation of Mary, by Thomas a Kempis
Our Duties to Mary

It is often important, indeed, to know of a refuge in which one may hide oneself against storms, in the presence of tempests of tribulation.  There is no spot, no place more secure, no port more tranquil than the bosom of Mary.  So there is no runner more rapid to support us against the blows of the enemy, than an ardent prayer, rising from the plain to the well-armed stronghold of the Virgin Mary.  This stronghold is the same one in which Jesus entered to be clothed therein with a body like unto an armor, so as to chase afar the prince of darkness.

Enter you, too, within that fortress so as to be sheltered from those who assail you.  Remain under the mantle of the Virgin Mary; you will be protected by the arms of a mother.  The prayer of Mary puts go flight the destructive rabble of evil enemies; her aid snatches us from imminent peril.  Near her, he who wavers finds support, and he who is abandoned, help....Attach yourself to her, and do not leave her until she has granted you her blessing so as to lead you to heaven.

O Mary, O mistress filled with clemency, in the name of pure love and affection, I remain at your feet.  Give to  my heart, I beg you, an increase of confidence.

Fear pursues me and doubt gnaws at me; despair assails me in the midst of temptations: only one thing is still able to console me:  It is that I have sought to be heard by you.  O Mother, I entrust myself to your heart.