If you wish to attain holy recollection, you will do so not by receiving but by denying.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Holy recollection is achieved through self-denial and giving up, not by acquiring more things or experiences.
- In plain terms
- Find inner focus by letting go, not by gaining more.
- What can you take from it?
- Attaining spiritual focus requires denying desires.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What do you need to let go of?
- Can you find peace in less?
Another view
Acquiring resources is sometimes necessary for survival.
More from John of the Cross
The very pure spirit does not bother about the regard of others or human respect, but communes inwardly with God, alone and in solitude as to all forms, and wi…
Permalink to quote #35 Souls will be unable to reach perfection who do not strive to be content with having nothing, in such fashion that their natural and spiritual desire is satisf…
Permalink to quote #37 One human thought alone is worth more than the entire world, hence God alone is worthy of it.
Permalink to quote #34
Related quotes
Not all the faculties and senses have to be employed in things, but only those that are required; as for the others, leave them unoccupied for God.
John of the CrossJohn of the Cross quote #41 Go to work on an egg.
Fay WeldonFay Weldon quote #1 Prayer is simple, as simple as a child making known what it wants to its parents.
Oswald ChambersOswald Chambers quote #2