I loved what I could love

I had a natural passion for fine clothes, excellent food, and

lively conversation about all matters that concern the heart

still alive. And a passion about my own looks.

Vanities: they do not exist.

Have you ever walked across a stream stepping on

rocks so not to spoil a pair of shoes?

All we can touch, swallow, or say

aids in our crossing to God

and helps unveil the soul.

Life smooths us, rounds, perfects, as does the river the stone,

and there is no place our Beloved is not flowing

through the current's force you

may not always like.

Our passions help to lift us.

I loved what I could love until I held Him,

for then - all things - every world

disappeared.

~Saint Teresa of Avila

 art from the Van Gogh Museum Amsterdam