The Great St. Teresa

St. Teresa of Avila, whose memorial we celebrate today, is often referred to as the Great Teresa, not only to distinguish here from St. Theresa of Lisieux, the "Little Flower", but also because of her amazing life and writings.  She set about to reform the Carmelite Order of Nuns in 16th century Spain, was vigorous in establishing reformed convents, and wrote several monumental books on prayer, contemplation and spirituality, The Ascent of Mt. Carmel, and The Interior Castle, to name two. She was the first woman, along with St. Catherine of Siena to be named a Doctor of the Church.  St. Theresa of Lisieux was later given this honor herself.
We sometimes shy away from St. Teresa because of the loftiness of her writings, and gravitate toward St. Theresa of Lisieux because of the simplicity and accessibility of her "Little Way", a spirituality for the "ordinary" person. Nwevertheless,  she was familiar with the writings of the Great Teresa and found them helpful in her own spiritual growth.
The important lesson for us, garnered from both these women, is that prayer is possible for us all, and must be an central part of our daily lives if we are serious about being a disciple of Jesus. If our yearning for "something more" or something to fill "the void" in our lives, is strong enough, we will find the time for quiet prayer, even if driving to work, or walking from one office or job to another. Our lives are busy, electronic "gadgets" smother us with messages by the minute, but can also be the gateway to soothing, uplifting, prayerful music, readings, or lectures.  "Imprisonment" by long commutes in heavy traffic can be a blessed time of prayer and communion with God.  What would the Great Tereasa or the Little Flower do?
Bro. Rene