“How is it, my God, that you have given me this hectic busy life when I have so little time to enjoy your presence. Throughout the day people are waiting to speak with me, and even at meals I have to continue talking to people about their needs and problems. During sleep itself I am still thinking and dreaming about the multitude of concerns that surround me. I do all this not for my own sake but for yours.
To me my present pattern of life is a torment; I only hope that for you it is a sacrifice of love. I know that you are constantly beside me, yet I am usually so busy that I ignore you. If you want me to remain so busy, please force me to think about and love you even in the midst of such hectic activity. If you do not want me so busy, please release me from it, showing how others can take over my responsibility.”

Teresa of Avila (1515-1582)

Teresa (read down to the Wikipedia entry onTeresa) was a member of a Carmelite order. After a series of ecstatic experiences she combined an intense spiritual life with tireless administrative activity, founding with John of the Cross a new primitive rule of Carmelites. She composed a number of poetic prayers, including the ‘Book of God’s Mercies.’