There was the torture of sermons, and that not a slight one, for I was very fond of them.
Teresa of AvilaHis Majesty knows best what is suitable for us. There's no need for us to be advising Him about what He should give us, for He can rightly tell us that we don't know what we're asking for (cf. Mt. 20:22). The whole aim of any person who is beginning prayer ? and don't forget this, because it's very important ? should be that he work and prepare himself with determination and every possible effort to bring his will into conformity with God's will.
Teresa of AvilaOur body has this defect that, the more it is provided care and comforts, the more needs and desires it finds.
Teresa of AvilaThose seeking the life of the spirit should be cheerful and free, and not neglect recreation. Married people must act in conformity with their vocation--but their progress will of necessity be but the pace of a hen.
Teresa of Avila