It is well that lover, brother, sister, husband, wife should suffer deep
anguish, and be enveloped in gloom when the visible object of their
affections is torn from them, so that they may learn to turn their
affections toward the invisible Source of all, where alone abiding
satisfaction is to be found.
It is well that the proud, the ambitious, the self-seeking, should suffer
defeat, humiliation, and misfortune; that they should pass through the
scorching fires of affliction; for only thus can the wayward soul be
brought to reflect upon the enigma of life; only thus can the heart be
softened and purified, and prepared to receive the Truth.
When the sting of anguish penetrates the heart of human love; when gloom
and loneliness and desertion cloud the soul of friendship and trust, then
it is that the heart turns toward the sheltering love of the Eternal, and
finds rest in its silent peace. And whosoever comes to this Love is not
turned away comfortless, is not pierced with anguish nor surrounded with
gloom; and is never deserted in the dark hour of trial.
The glory of Divine Love can only be revealed in the heart that is
chastened by sorrow, and the image of the heavenly state can only be
perceived and realized when the lifeless, formless accretions of ignorance
and self are hewn away.
Only that Love that seeks no personal gratification or reward, that does
not make distinctions, and that leaves behind no heartaches, can be called
divine.
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