Even the tiniest thread ties a little bird down. It is so little that the tiniest thing gets in the way and impairs it from flying. There are many threads, more or less tiny, today in the form of technology. This is not to say we are not to like or love technological advances or advantages and uses in Christ and for our neighbour in reference to whom all the virtues are exercised. But it is to say that there is nowhere free from the need for detachment except freedom itself. In any treatment of created things, however noble the goal, the simultaneous need for detachment and love remains exacting.

Only in Christ. That is the progressively realized rule: a rule that is freedom.

If we need a relaxation and Jesus (he was a playful little boy, too) wills it – of course! Likewise, a communication charged with and focused on God’s love in any of its aspects – of course! But a diversion (distraction from the truth, in Pascal’s sense: a turning towards the most exterior aspects of ourselves and our passions excited without peace) – never! Likewise, a busyness focused on anything except God and the grace of the virtues and the gifts, no matter how “spiritual” or “noble” the subject matter (neighbours, visions, administration, work…) first, is still an attachment holding us down. It is a fine line. It is the line of detachment.

Love of neighbour – in Christ – and love of creatures – in Christ – is as demanding as love of God.