from The Way of the Cross with the Carmelite Saints
St. Teresa Benedicta of the CrossMore effective than the mortification one practices according to one's own choice is the cross that God lays upon one, exteriorly and interiorly.
The cross shines and is made glorious by our submission and obedience to it. What we take upon ourselves is granted by the grace of God to us. However, the trials that come upon us are strengthening and life-changing in our willing acceptance of them. In such trials, we do not choose the cause of suffering, but in the ultimate imitation of Our Master, we embrace them, carry them, and ultimately conquer them through our resurrrection in Him. We are transformed completely by our obedience through grace. The mortifications that are part of our lives are ultimately new life for us. Embracing the cross is the first step toward union. How each one goes about this will differ according to God's plan and will for that person. But there is no glory without the cross, and there is no increase in God without accepting what God in His mercy has granted us.
Even more poignant words when you consider that they came from a victim of Auschwitz.
You know, Steven. It's okay to take a couple of days of from blogging. I can forgive that. However, today is St. Theresa of Avila's birthday and I've been watching for something special from you. Come on, buddy, you've got 6 hours left to get something up here. ;)
Hope all is well with you and yours.