And truly, O man, if you concentrate hard on the state you are in it will be surprising if you have time for anything else.
Bernard of ClairvauxGrace is necessary to salvation, free will equally so - but grace in order to give salvation, free will in order to receive it.
Bernard of ClairvauxMy child, seek those things which make for peace. Cease to stir up the King against the Church, and urge upon him a better course of action. If you will promise to do this, I in return promise to entreat the merciful Lord to grant you offspring.
Bernard of ClairvauxLet us affectionately love His angels as counselors and defenders appointed by the Father and placed over us. They are faithful; they are prudent; they are powerful; Let us only follow them, let us remain close to them, and in the protection of the God of heaven let us abide.
Bernard of ClairvauxDeath is the gate of life. Ingratitude is the soul's enemy... Ingratitude is a burning wind that dries up the source of love, the dew of mercy, the streams of grace. You will find something far greater in the woods than you will find in books. Stones and trees will teach you that which you will never learn from masters.
Bernard of Clairvaux