Complete serenity…

Complete serenity of mind is a gift from God; but this serenity is not given with our own intense effort. You will achieve nothing by your own efforts alone; yet God will not give you anything, unless you work with all your strength.
–Saint Theophan the Recluse (1815-1894)

When affliction overtakes you…

Let us prepare for suffering and disappointment, which befit us as sinners, and which are necessary for us as saints. Let us not turn away from trial when God brings it on us, or play the coward in the fight of faith… When affliction overtakes you, remember to accept it as a means of improving your hearts, and pray God for His grace that it may do so.
–Blessed John Henry Newman (1801-1890)

Seek truth…

One should not seek among others the truth that can be easily gotten from the Church. For in her, as in a rich treasury, the apostles have placed all that pertains to truth, so that everyone can drink this beverage of life. She is the door of life.
— Saint Irenaeus of Lyons (late Second Century)