October 21
Charles of Austria, husband and ruler (1887–1922)
Ruler
Last emperor of Austria and king of Hungary, Charles of Habsburg understood government as a service submitted to the will of God.
Biography
Faithful husband of Zita and father of eight children, he took care of the family prayer and made his important decisions before the Eucharist. Upon inheriting the throne in the middle of World War I, he sought peace negotiations, limited punishments and promoted social measures, although his efforts failed. After the fall of the empire he refused to regain power through a civil war. He lived in exile and poverty in Madeira, forgave his adversaries and offered his illness for the reconciliation of peoples.
Practical advice
Use a responsibility of authority today to serve and protect, not to impose your own comfort.
Example of
JusticePrudenceFamily life