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Consoling Quote by Thomas Merton

“Therefore, doing the Stations of the Cross was still more laborious than consoling, and required a sacrifice. It was much the same with all my devotions. They did not come easily or spontaneously, and they very seldom brought with them any strong sensible satisfaction. Nevertheless the work of…” quote by Thomas Merton
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“Therefore, doing the Stations of the Cross was still more laborious than consoling, and required a sacrifice. It was much the same with all my devotions. They did not come easily or spontaneously, and they very seldom brought with them any strong sensible satisfaction. Nevertheless the work of performing them ended in a profound and fortifying peace: a peace that was scarcely perceptible, but which deepened and which, as my passions subsided, became more and more real, more and more sure, and finally stayed with me permanently.”

Thomas Merton

About This Quote

Source Book: The Seven Storey Mountain, Thomas Merton, 1948

Spiritual practices can feel burdensome and unsatisfying, yet they may yield a deep, lasting inner peace that grows as passions subside.

In simple terms: Hard work in devotion can bring lasting peace.

Key Takeaway

Embrace disciplined practice for lasting peace.

Themes

spirituality discipline inner peace sacrifice growth

Mood

contemplative reflective

Type

spiritual philosophical

When to use this quote

  • personal prayer
  • daily meditation
  • ritual observance
  • timesiritual retreats

Key Concepts

Meditation ritual self‑transcendence

Questions to Reflect On

  • What quiet benefits have you overlooked?
  • How can routine deepen your inner calm?
A Different Perspective

Peace may be subtle and take time to notice.

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