“The “real” work of prayer is to become silent and listen to the voice that says good things about me. This might sound self-indulgent, but, in practice, it is a hard discipline. To gently push aside and silence the many voices that question my goodness and to trust that I will hear a voice of blessing… that demands real effort. If we dare to embrace our solitude and befriend our silence, we will come to know that voice.
The movement of God’s Spirit is very gentle, very soft – and hidden. It does not seek attention. But that movement is also very persistent, strong and deep. It changes our hearts radically. The faithful discipline of prayer reveals to you that you are the blessed one and gives you the power to bless others.”
–Henri Nouwen, Life of the Beloved
