By Plinio Corrêa de Oliveira
Once while in Rome, a friend and I passed in front of a shop window with several jars of cherry compote and other fruits. I told my friend: “I generally like fruit jams much more than natural fruit, and so I think cherry compote is much better than fresh, raw cherries.”
My friend argued that he liked the raw fruit better because it retains certain natural energies and flavours.
I replied that cooking natural, raw fruit produces something even better, more refined, and civilising. Indeed, the fruit always loses something in the process, but it gains more than it loses.
In principle, I agree that contact with raw and natural things, not only in cooking but in everything in nature, offers something original that we need to be in touch with from time to time.
Click here to read Padre Pio’s Advice on Guardian Angels
However, life is such that everything in nature can be organised, improved and mastered. As king of creation, man subjects everything to himself. He improves upon the flavours and directs the degree of flexibility or resistance found in natural things according to his tastes. Thus, he is in charge of creation and fulfils his role as the master of things.
This excerpt is from a lecture by Prof. Plinio Corrêa de Oliveira on November 8, 1991. The author did not revise this transcript.
This year, it is more crucial than ever that we turn to prayer and intercession to increase devotion to Our Lady across our country. That’s why you’re invited to join us in the Three Hail Marys Pledge, a powerful devotion that can bring personal spiritual benefits and national transformation. By reciting three Hail Marys daily, you honour the Immaculate Heart of Mary and seek her intercession for the conversion of sinners, the salvation of souls and the restoration of Ireland’s Catholic Faith. This ancient devotion, revealed to Saint Mechtilde, promises spiritual benefits including protection from mortal sin and the assurance of a good death. Your daily prayers will contribute to an increase in devotion to Our Lady, the conversion of sinners and the moral renewal of our country. Let us commit to this powerful devotion and seek the guidance and protection of Our Lady.
