He who interrupts the course of his spiritual exercises and prayer is like a man who allows a bird to escape from his hand; he can hardly catch it again.
John of the CrossNever relax, for you will not attain to the possession of true spiritual delights if first you do not learn to deny your every desire.
John of the CrossThough the path is plain and smooth for men of good will, he who walks it will not travel far, and will do so only with difficulty, if he does not have good feet: that is, courage and a persevering spirit.
John of the Cross