A person who loves and wants to be loved must spend their time close to their friend so that they can occasionally look at them and wait to hear their voice. Face to face or side by side; in any case, very close. (…) Why take on tasks that distance us from our friend – and convince ourselves that we are fulfilling them for their sake? No heroic act we perform, no sacrifice made for the beloved – but far from them – will have as much value as simply remaining by their side. Great deeds and sacrifices may certainly win a hero the love of others, but only if they were born from the intimate closeness that preceded or will follow them...
No sacrifice is too great when it comes to being together or – since we are speaking of God's presence – to quietly dwell before God. The main requirement that love for God places upon you is the same as the primary requirement of human friendship. This fully justifies the contemplative prayer practiced by God's friends. Unceasing, persistent prayer. Prayer of long abiding.
(Father Jerome /1907–1985/, monk of the Trappist monastery in Sept-Fons, Options and Melodies)
