
The Commentaries 3. The Confessions of St. Augustine: Childhood
Jan 15, 2024
Dive into Saint Augustine's reflections on childhood and divine grace. Explore the mystery of birth and how parents shape identity as instruments of God's will. Discover Augustine's thoughts on original sin and the disorder found even in infants. Hear his candid stories of school struggles and moral challenges, mixed with moments of joy and playfulness. The narrative wraps up with Augustine's heartfelt gratitude for the gifts God provided during his early years, celebrating the beauty of life.
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Life As Gift Of Divine Grace
- Augustine argues life itself is an unearned gift given by God's grace from conception onward.
- He insists we rely on others as instruments of that grace and cannot craft our own being.
Parental Care As Divine Providence
- Augustine highlights that even nursing and parental desires flow from God and are signs of his providence.
- He frames natural parental love and nourishment as ordered goods bestowed by God.
The Will Of The Infant
- Augustine observes infants show a will that seeks dominance despite physical weakness.
- He concludes that weakness prevents harm, not harmless intentions in the infant will.


