Nature makes trees put down deep roots before having them bear fruit, and even this is done gradually.

[I]n order to raise a soul to the highest perfection, He allows it to pass through dryness, brambles, and combats, causing it thereby to honor the times of weariness in the life of His Son, Our Lord, who suffered various kinds of anguish and abandonment.

[N]or should you move so fast! The works of God do not proceed in that way; they come about of themselves, and those He does not create soon perish.

The works of God are not accomplished when we wish them, but whenever it pleases Him.

I have made to God the offering you made to me of your heart and have asked him to unite mine with yours in that of Our Lord.

Good works are often spoiled by moving too quickly. . . . The good which God desires is accomplished almost by itself, without our even thinking of it.

There are some persons who are content with everything and others who are scarcely content with anything. These latter need patience to bear with themselves.