The custom of speaking to God Almighty as freely as with a slave - caring nothing whether the words are suitable or not, but simply saying the first thing that comes to mind from being learnt by rote by frequent repetition - cannot be called prayer: God grant that no Christian may address Him in this manner.

May God protect me from gloomy saints.

Whenever conscience commands anything, there is only one thing to fear, and that is fear.

No one should think or say anything of another which he would not wish thought or said of himself.

The feeling remains that God is on the journey, too.

As to the aridity you are suffering from, it seems to me our Lord is treating you like someone He considers strong: He wants to test you and see if you love Him as much at times of aridity as when He sends you consolations. I think this is a very great favor for God to show you.

How often I failed in my duty to God, because I was not leaning on the strong pillar of prayer.