A certain officer experienced several reverses of fortune. Although he had the bravery required to be an officer, he lacked the courage to face the misfortunes that God sends to His elect to purify them and allow them to make reparation for their sins. Resolved to end his life, he entered into a wood, with his revolver in his hand. He was determined to end his suffering with a bullet to his brain.

He made his way into the deeper, denser part of the forest and raised the revolver to his head. In his agitated state, he had not noticed that some peasants, by the Providence of God, were very close by gathering mushrooms.

As the officer was about to fire his gun, one of the men sprang forward and wrenched the weapon out of his hand. Thereupon the officer drew his sword. He pointed it at the man who had saved his life and made as if to run him through. The hero showed no sign of fear, but spoke boldly:

“Strike if you will; for I am not afraid of death. I have more courage than you! For twenty long years I have had nothing but misfortune and suffering, and, with Heaven’s help, I have borne all my troubles with patience.”

These words, and the valiant behavior of this man who was his companion in suffering, brought the officer to his senses. He realized that his intention of committing suicide to end his suffering was merely a very sinful and stupid act of cowardice. Those who seek to escape suffering in this life will certainly not escape it in the next. He remembered that those who commit suicide deserve to be sent immediately to hell, forever.

Sheathing his sword, the officer entered into a friendly and grateful conversation with his humble companion, who had been the instrument that God had used to save the man’s life - and far more importantly, his soul.