Let, therefore, your solicitude towards your subjects be worthy of praise. Let discipline be exhibited with gentleness. Let rebuke be with discernment. Let kindness mitigate wrath; let zeal sharpen kindness: and let one be so seasoned with the other that neither immoderate punishment afflict more than it ought, nor again laxity impair the rectitude of discipline. Let the conduct of your Fraternity be a lesson to the people committed to you. Let them see in you what to love, and perceive what to make haste to imitate. Let them be taught how to live by your example. Let them not deviate from the straight course through your leading; let them find their way to God by following you; that so you may receive as many rewards from the Savior of the human race as you shall have won souls for Him. Labor therefore, most dear brother, and so direct the whole activity of your heart and soul, that you may hereafter be counted worthy to hear, Well done, thou good and faithful servant: enter thou into the joy of your Lord. — Book V, Letter 57 from Gregory, Bishop of Rome to John, Bishop of the Corinthians.