Let us not lament if we suffer from some natural defect of body or mind; from poor memory, slowness of understanding, little ability . . . or general bad health. What claim have we, or what obligation is God under, to give us a more brilliant mind or a more robust body? Who is ever offered a gift and then lays down the conditions upon which he will accept it? Who knows? Perhaps if God had given us greater talent, better health, a more personable appearance, we might have lost our souls. Great talent and knowledge have caused many to be puffed up with the idea of their own importance . . . How many, on the contrary, who, by reason of poverty, infirmity or physical deformity, have become saints and have saved their souls . . . But one thing is necessary and it is not beauty, not health, not talent. It is the salvation of our immortal souls.

– St. Alphonsus Liguori