Action and contemplation are very close companions; they live together in one house on equal terms. Martha and Mary are sisters.
Bernard Of ClairvauxRead
You wish to see; listen. Hearing is a step toward Vision.
Interpretation
To gain insight, one must first listen. Listening opens the door to deeper understanding and perception.
The quote emphasizes the importance of listening as a precursor to gaining true insight and understanding. It suggests that by paying attention and actively listening, individuals can enhance their perception and move towards a clearer vision of reality. This aligns with the idea that comprehension and awareness begin with the ability to hear and absorb information from the world around us.
In practice
In a workshop about communication skills, this quote can remind participants of the importance of active listening.
Action and contemplation are very close companions; they live together in one house on equal terms. Martha and Mary are sisters.
Neither fear nor self-interest can convert the soul. They may change the appearance, perhaps even the conduct, but never the object of supreme desire... Fear is the motive which constrains the slave; greed binds the selfish man, by which he is tempted when he is drawn away by his own lust and enticed (James 1:14). But neither fear nor self-interest is undefiled, nor can they convert the soul. Only charity can convert the soul, freeing it from unworthy motives.
Pride only, the chief of all iniquities, can make us treat gifts as if they were rightful attributes of our nature, and, while receiving benefits, rob our Benefactor of His due glory.
The piercing nail has become a key to unlock the door, that I may see the good will of the Lord. And what can I see as I look through the hole? Both the nail and the wound cry out that God was in Christ reconciling the world to himself... Through these sacred wounds we can see the secret of his heart, the great mystery of love.
What I know of the divine_x000D_ science and holy scripture,_x000D_ I learnt in the woods and fields.
Learn the lesson that, if you are to do the work of a prophet, what you need is not a sceptre but a hoe.
Poverty is uncomfortable; but nine times out of ten the best thing that can happen to a young man is to be tossed overboard and compelled to sink or swim.
Simply be who you are, do what you do best, be where you are called by joy, and let life work its magic on your behalf.
People need trouble - a little frustration to sharpen the spirit on, toughen it.
Be not swept off your feet by the vividness of the impression, but say, "Impression, wait for me a little. Let me see what you are and what you represent. Let me try you."
The victories of character are instant, and victories for all.
When one door closes, another one opens, but sometimes we wait too long looking at the closed door, and never realize that another door has been opened.
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