I Was Born For You

Saint Teresa was born in 1515, in an era of political, social and religious upheaval.

Despite these circumstances and her ill health, she forge ahead and established convents throughout Spain and even wrote about her prayer experiences.
Some of these books, include 'The Book of Her Life', 'The Way of Perfection' and 'Interior Castle'. Until today, her writings remain relevant; her spiritual insights distilled in captivating imagery and her observations of life, aptly described.

She writes, 'everything tires, everything wearies, everything torments. If it is not with God or for God, there is no rest that doesn't weary it.' [From The Book of Her Life, Chapter 26]

By Living Her Life, Guided by #Divine #Wisdom, a Life in #Communion with God, She Has Lived Her Life to the Full. Saint Teresa of Jesus, Pray for Us.

#carmelite #contemplation #prayer #stj500 #saint teresa #st teresa #spain #avila

Fearing Love

[Parents of St Therese]

St Therese describes her young self, as someone 'who gets into frightful tantrums; when things don't go just right and according to her way of thinking' 

(from Chapter 1 of 'Story of a Soul')

However in the presence of her loving family and with the grace of God, her strong willed, self-love is gradually transformed into a selfless consideration of others. 'My nature was such that fear made me recoil; with love not only did I advance, I actually flew.' 

(from Chapter 8 of 'Story of a Soul)

Perhaps, we can easily identify with her strong willed nature or know someone who resembles thus. But is it not amazing, how such a great transformation, can be brought about by love & charity, instead of fear & violence?

 #carmelite #contemplation #prayer #presence #love #grace #charity #self #personality #strong-willed #stubborn #fear #violence