Obedience is a penance of reason, and, on that account, a sacrifice more acceptable than all corporal penances and mortifications.
John of the CrossLive in the world as if only God and your soul were in it; then your heart will never be made captive by any earthly thing.
John of the CrossDesolation is a file, and the endurance of darkness is preparation for great light.
John of the CrossThe eternal spring is hidden in this living bread for our life's sake, although it is night. It is here calling out to creatures; and they satisfy their thirst, although in darkness, because it is night. This living spring that I long for, I see in this bread of life, although it is night.
John of the Cross