A brief respite from the heavy work on clerical abuse, with these quotes that were posted to Facebook, Instagram, and X recently:

We should notice here the difference which exists between the contemplation of Christians and that of pagan [Greek] philosophers. The latter sought only their own perfection, and hence their contemplation affected their intellect only; they desired only to enrich their minds with knowledge. But the contemplation of the saints, which is that of Christians, seeks as its end the love of the God whom they contemplate. Hence it is not content to find fruit for the intelligence, but penetrates beyond to the will that it may there enkindle love.

The saints desired above all in their contemplation the increase of charity. — Saint Albert the Great

When an encounter with God is called an “ecstasy,” it is because it takes us outside of ourselves and raises us up, overwhelming us with God’s love and beauty. Yet we can also step outside of ourselves when we see the hidden beauty in other human beings, in their dignity and grandeur, how they have been made in the image of God and the Son. The Holy Spirit urges us to step outside of ourselves, embrace others with love, and seek out their goodness. — Pope Francis

As you work, as you come and go, as you pass among the crowds, to be a contemplative will mean simply that you try to turn to Jesus within you and to enter into conversation with him as with the one you love most in the world. — Little Sister Magdeleine of Jesus

Tossing on the waves,
My boat heads fervently
Towards the shore of Love
Towards the port of peace.

I do not stop rowing in the night,
Despite the wind and the waves.
O my Jesus, come to my aid,
You are the rudder and I the rower.

Where, therefore is the palace of heaven?
You are guiding my boat in the wrong direction.
I am tired of rowing;
Help me in the crossing.

My Brother Jesus! Help me!
Lead me to paradise,
Where, together, we will taste
Rest and happiness without end.

Marcel Văn