Thomas Merton
439 citations

In general, it can be said that no contemplative life is possible without ascetic self-discipline. One must learn to survive without the habit-forming luxuries which get such a hold on men today. I do not say that to be a contemplative one absolutely has to go without smoking or without alcohol, but certainly one must be able to use these things without being dominated by an uncontrolled need for them. ✨ Thomas Merton (2007). New Seeds of Contemplation, p.86, New Directions Publishing

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Life

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