I wonder if a certain greater sobriety is not asked of us as regards our use of social media. And if so, who is going to tell us so? So much that is stern and chastising has been removed from the public acceptance of our faith today. This is strange when, never before, it seems, has such chastisement been so very badly needed.
To see what I mean, open the pages of the spiritual classic, The Imitation of Christ, by Thomas à Kempis. St. Thérèse of Lisieux memorized entire chapters of this book. Pope Benedict called it “that golden text of spirituality.” St. Theresa of Ávila directed that a copy should be placed in every convent that she founded.
In his chapter on love of solitude and silence, Thomas writes:
Very many great saints avoided the company of men wherever possible and chose to serve God in retirement. “As often as I have been among men,” said one writer, “I have returned less a man.” We often find this to be true when we take part in long conversations. It is easier to be silent altogether than not to speak too much. To stay at home is easier
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