Half-instructed confessors have done my soul great harm; for I could not always have such learned ones as I would have desired. They certainly did not wish to deceive me, but the fact was that they knew no better. Of something which was a venial sin, they said it was no sin, and out of a very grave mortal sin they made a venial sin. This has done me such harm, that my speaking here of so great an evil, as a warning to others, will be readily understood.
Teresa of AvilaSuffering is a great favor. Remember that everything soon comes to an end . . . and take courage. Think of how our gain is eternal.
Teresa of AvilaI am quite sure I am more afraid of people who are themselves terrified of the devil than I am of the devil himself.
Teresa of Avila