Realize above all that you are in God’s presence, and stand there with the attitude of one who stands before the emperor. Empty yourself completely and sit waiting, content with the grace of God, like the chick who tastes nothing and eats nothing but what his mother brings him.
— Saint Romuald of Ravenna (951-1027)
Jesus, because He is Eternal, regards not the time but only the love.
–Saint Therese of Lisieux (1873-1897)
I have not the courage to force myself to seek beautiful prayers in books; not knowing which to choose I act as children do who cannot read; I say quite simply to the good God what I want to tell Him, and He always understands me.
–Saint Therese of Lisieux (1873-1897)
Granting that we are always in the presence of God, yet it seems to me that those who pray are in His presence in a very different sense; for they, as it were, see that He is looking upon them, while others may go for days on end without even once recollecting that God sees them.
–Saint Teresa of Avila (1515-1582)
Stand patiently and pray steadfastly, brushing off the impacts of worldly cares and all thoughts; for they distract and worry you in order to disturb the impetus of your prayer.
— Saint Nilus of Sinai (d. 430)
Return thanks to God for all your spiritual graces, natural gifts and every other good that you possess, attributing nothing to yourself except your sins, faults and imperfections.
— Saint John of Avila (1500 – 1569)
