Introduction to the Devout Life, Part II, Chapter 9

It may happen, Philothea, that you find no liking for meditation nor any consolation in it.  I plead with you, do not be upset in the least.  Sometimes open the door to vocal prayers:  tell the Lord about your unhappy condition, acknowledge your unworthiness, ask him for his help, kiss his picture if you have it.

(Read further in Introduction to the Devout Life, Part II, Chapter 9)

A Call to Arms

  Letter to a Wife and Mother

Since he is more pleased with our service when we are suffering from aridity than when our prayers afford us every satisfaction, we should prefer it too – at least in the higher part of our souls.  Although from the point of view of our self-love serenity and sympathy are more pleasant, from the point of view of God’s love aridity is more beneficial.

(Read further in Letter to a Wife and Mother)

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