I am like a chemical compound in Your Laboratory of Life, O Lord, a compound

from which the element Perfection has not yet been isolated, a compound in which
the properties of the element Perfection are disguised by the combination with
earthly vanities. Take me then, O Lord, analyze me according to my good and evil
constituents and isolate the pure element Perfection, as a chemist analyzed and
separated from a substance all foreign matter, analyze me that I may learn to know
myself and that I may emerge a pure element, worthy to be included in the group of
elements already freed from the bonds of their earthly life.
First, grind me in the mortar of childish whims, that I may emerge a
composite sample of Your Likeness. Weigh me on the balance of Your generosity and
decide how great a sample I shall be in Your Laboratory of Life. Then, ignite me in
the furnace of Your love, that the carbon dioxide of earthly vanities be driven off.
Cool me with the balm of Your mercy. Dissolve me in Your grace and filter me
through the fine mesh of earthly trials so that imperfections may be banished.
Precipitate my evil tendencies with the strong precipitant of Your justice and isolate
them from Your compound. Precipitate the gelatinous silicate of earthly attachments
which draw me from You. Imprison me in Your love with the mordant of sacrifice.
Digest me in the length of my life, that my good deeds will grow and that selfsatisfaction shall not be occluded with them. Blast out any impurities that may be
introduced and finally, seal me forever, a pure substance in the container of your
Eternal Happiness.