Hildegard of Bingen left behind an extensive correspondence. Her 390 letters are an important part of her proclamation of faith and testify to her fearless directness, admonishing concern, refreshingly humorous open-heartedness, personal commitment, and far-reaching influence in church politics and society. More than from her other writings, one can glean from the letters that Hildegard acted with a prophetic sense of mission and spoke powerfully to her contemporaries as the "Trumpet of God." Furthermore, the letters show that Hildegard was already a recognized authority during her lifetime. Countless people, including popes, emperors, princes, and abbots, as well as simple farmers, priests, and religious figures, sought and found advice and help from her. Her opinion was sought after, even if it was often uncomfortable and by no means always flattering.