My favorite example of Christian conversion comes from St. Therese of Lisieux (1873-97). When she was thirteen years old, she discovered that true happiness came not from seeking contentment for herself, but instead for those around her. Reflecting the paradox of the Gospels, she noted that in one instance, "[l]ove filled my heart; I forgot myself; and henceforth I was happy." I guess this ties in with the notion that rituals themselves do no bring us closer to the Christian ideal. Love does.
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My favorite example of Christian conversion comes from St. Therese of Lisieux (1873-97). When she was thirteen years old, she discovered that true happiness came not from seeking contentment for herself, but instead for those around her. Reflecting the paradox of the Gospels, she noted that in one instance, "[l]ove filled my heart; I forgot myself; and henceforth I was happy." I guess this ties in with the notion that rituals themselves do no bring us closer to the Christian ideal. Love does.
Thanks, Juan. I learned this the other day. When someone is happy, the people around her are 25% more likely to be happy.
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