We too are called to withdraw at certain intervals into deeper silence and aloneness with God… not with our books, thoughts, and memories but completely stripped of everything, to dwell lovingly in God’s presence – silent, empty, expectant, and motionless.
–Saint Teresa of Calcutta (1910-1997)
Among the truths of our faith, there is none more precious, more important, than what Christ tells us is the precious, priceless value of suffering.
–John Hardon (1914-2000)
Is there anything I can do to make myself enlightened?
As little as you can do to make the sun rise in the morning.
Then of what use are the spiritual exercises you prescribe?
To make sure you are not asleep when the sun begins to rise.
–Anthony de Mello (1931-1987)
One of our main problems is that in this chatty society, silence has become a very fearful thing. For most people, silence creates itchiness and nervousness. Many experience silence not as full and rich, but as empty and hollow. For them silence is like a gaping abyss which can swallow them up.
–Henri Nouwen (1932-1996)
Our courteous Lord does not want his servants to despair even when they fall often and grievously into sin. For our falling does not hinder him from loving us.
–Saint Julian of Norwich (1342-1416)
We need to fall, and we need to be aware of it; for if we did not fall, we should not know how weak and wretched we are of ourselves, nor should we know our Maker’s marvelous love so fully.
–Saint Julian of Norwich (1342-1416)
