Let them always keep in mind that they belong by gracious choice to the family of the blessed Mary, Mother of God, from whose name they are called Marists --- and whom they have chosen from the beginning as their model and first and perpetual superior. If therefore they are or wish to be true sons of this dear Mother, let them continually strive to draw upon her Spirit and breathe it; a spirit of humility, self-denial, intimate union with God, and the most ardent love of neighbor. So that they must think as Mary, judge as Mary, feel and act as Mary in all things.
The Society of Mary Constitutions, paragraph 49, 1872; The Society of Mary Constitutions, 1987, paragraph 228.