"I am not saying that God calls to us directly, as he will do later. For now, his voice reaches to us through words spoken by good people, though listening to spiritual talks, and reading sacred literature. God calls to us in countless little ways all the time. Through illnesses and suffering through sorrow he calls to us. No matter how halfhearted such insights may be. God rejoices whenever we learn what he is trying to teach us.
Don't underestimate this first favor, friends, or be overly saddened if you cannot respond instantaneously to the call of the Beloved. His Majesty has no trouble waiting for many days, even years, especially when he sees that we are persevering and that our desires are good. Perseverence brings great gains.
But the spirit of evil assaults the soul in a thousand ways now and her suffering is deeper than it was before. In the first dwelling she could hear almost nothing, and she resisted less. The soul was a warrior who had lost hope of victory. The intellect has sharpened now and the faculties have grown more skillfull. The clash of arms and explosion of mortar are so intense that the soul cannot help but perceive them. Now the little demons present these serpents -- which are worldly attachments and earthly pleasures -- as if they were abiding realities."
-- "Interior Castles"
Saint Teresa of Avila
(Translated: Mirabei Starr)
1 comment:
I can't help but recall our discussion at the library while you were entering that book. I can't help but further recall my initial angst with regards to the cover-piece.
Castles bring an altogether disturbing imagery to some and one of regality to others. It all depends on the perspective of the viewer and the reasons for fear. We have nothing to fear as we ever enter His castle. We are his stately squires, knights, and servants.
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