HE INTERIOR LIFE

The interior life is an abiding sense of GOD'S Presence, a constant union
with Him.

We learn to look upon the heart as the temple where GOD dwells, sometimes
glorious as above, sometimes hidden as in the Holy Eucharist; and we act,
think, speak, and fulfil all our duties, as in His Presence.

Its aim is to shun sin, and cultivate a detachment from all earthly things
by a spirit of poverty; sensual pleasures by purity and mortification;
pride by humility; dissipation by recollection.

As a rule, people are prejudiced against an interior life. Some are afraid
of it, and look upon it as a life of bondage, sacrifice, and restraint:
others despise it, as nothing but a multiplicity of trifling rules,
tending only to narrow-mindedness and uselessness, and fit only for weak
minds. In consequence they are on their guard against it, and avoid the
books that treat of it.

They would serve GOD no doubt, but they will not subject themselves to the
entire guidance of His Spirit; in short, it is far easier to bring a soul
from a state of sin to that of grace, than it is to lead a busy, active,
zealous person to the hidden, contemplative life of the soul.

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EXCELLENCE OF THE INTERIOR LIFE

GOD dwelling within us, the life of CHRIST Himself, when on earth, living
always in His FATHER'S Presence.

It is the life of which S. Paul speaks when he says, "nevertheless I live;
yet not I, but CHRIST liveth in me."

All saints must lead this life, and their degree of holiness is in
proportion to the perfection of their union with GOD.

CHRIST animates their souls, even as the soul animates the body.

They own CHRIST as Master, Counsellor, and Guide; and nothing is done
without submitting it to Him, and imploring His aid and approval.

CHRIST is their strength, their refuge, their defender.

They live in constant dependence upon Him, as their Father, Protector, and
all-powerful King.

They are drawn to Him, as the child is drawn by love, the poor by need.

They let themselves be guided by Him, as the blind let themselves be led
by the child in whom they confide; they bear all suffering that comes from
Him, as the sick, in order to be healed, bear suffering at the hands of a
physician; and they lean on Him, as the child leans on its mother's
breast.

It lifts them above the troubles and miseries of life; the whole world may
seem a prey to calamities; themselves, depriv