Abandonment Quote by Thomas Merton
“And it is in this darkness, when there is nothing left in us that can please or comfort our own minds, when we seem to be useless and worthy of all contempt, when we seem to have failed, when we seem to be destroyed and devoured, it is then that the deep and secret selfishness that is too close to us for us to identify is stripped away from our souls. It is in this darkness that we find liberty. It is in this abandonment that we are made strong. This is the night which empties us and makes us pure.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Seven Storey Mountain, 1948
In moments of profound despair, hidden selfishness fades, revealing inner freedom and strength through surrender.
In simple terms: Darkness strips ego, exposing liberty and power.
Key Takeaway
Embrace vulnerability to discover inner strength.
Themes
spirituality
psychology
resilience
identity
transformation
Mood
introspective
hopeful
serene
Type
spiritual
inspirational
When to use this quote
- therapy
- meditation
- creative writing
- support groups
Key Concepts
Existentialism
self‑transcendence
inner freedom
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you confront personal darkness?
- What practices help you feel liberated?
A Different Perspective
The insight may feel abstract without concrete practice.
