Beatice of Nazareth: Seven Ways To Love
1st way of love
Traits: originates from love, not from fear.
Goals: more connected through knowledge of God until equipped enough to be called by God; exist in purity and freedom in God’s image
Methods: fully engage, guard against and shun what prevents progress, constant searching and demanding
Ways it satisfies: God allows us to serve forever without impediment from the past, with a free consciousness and clear mind
Ways it doesn’t satisfy: the heart never rests or subsides from searching
2nd way of love
Traits: wants nothing in return, not even God’s mercy or bliss, burning desire to give God pleasure
Goals: being allowed to serve God
Methods: servitude beyond human idea and reason
Ways it satisfies: finding pleasure in being able to do something/to help God
Ways it doesn’t satisfy:
3rd way of love
Traits: connected to pain and misery, sometimes violent desire, firm intent, superhuman impossible desires, inable to be moderated or quieted
Goals: be completely committed to love and feel satiated
Methods: determination to bear everything and suffer, thanks, praises, works and drudges for love
Ways it satisfies: it often doesn’t at all
Ways it doesn’t satisfy: constantly disappointed because you cannot do enough for love, and that so much is being kept from us
4th way of love
Traits: strong domination, sweetness, associated with strength and heights
Goals: a strong bond with God, clear spirit, noble freedom, unity of sensory experience
Methods: without any help of human effort, love is awakened in the heart and soul; the body escapes, the mind plunges and the heart melts
Ways it satisfies: the greatness of love absorbs us
Ways it d ...