Although a person’s life will become more active than contemplative… Mary and Martha [see Lk 10:38–42] never fail to work almost together when the soul is in this state [of continual prayer and contemplation]. For in the active – and seemingly exterior – work the soul is working interiorly. And when the active works rise from this interior root, they become lovely and fragrant flowers… The fragrance from these flowers spreads to the benefit of many. It is a fragrance that lasts, not passing quickly, but having great effect.
Saint Teresa of Jesus