If we practice love of neighbor with great perfection, we will have done everything.
Teresa of AvilaMy father was a man of great charity towards the poor, and compassion for the sick, and also for servants; so much so, that he never could be persuaded to keep slaves, for he pitied them so much: and a slave belonging to one of his brothers being once in his house, was treated by him with as much tenderness as his own children.
Teresa of AvilaI am really much more afraid of those people who have so great a fear of the devil, than I am of the devil himself.
Teresa of AvilaHis Majesty [the Lord] . . . rewards great services with trials, and there can be no better reward, for out of trials springs love for God.
Teresa of AvilaHer heart is full of joy with love, for in the Lord her mind is stilled. She has renounced every selfish attachment and draws abiding joy and strength from the One within. She lives not for herself, but lives to serve the Lord of Love in all, and swims across the sea of life breasting its rough waves joyfully.
Teresa of Avila