“Just living is not enough," said the butterfly, "one must have sunshine, freedom, and a little flower.”
― The Complete Fairy Tales
― The Complete Fairy Tales
“All of us have had this experience. At some point, we have each said through our tears, “I’m suffering for a love that’s not worth it.” We suffer because we feel we are giving more than we receive. We suffer because our love is going unrecognized. We suffer because we are unable to impose our own rules.
But ultimately there is no good reason for our suffering, for in every love lies the seed of our growth. The more we love, the closer we come to spiritual experience. Those who are truly enlightened, those whose souls are illuminated by love, have been able to overcome all of the inhibitions and preconceptions of their era. They have been able to sing, to laugh, and to pray out loud; they have danced and shared what Saint Paul called “the madness of saintliness.” They have been joyful—because those who love conquer the world and have no fear of loss. True love is an act of total surrender.”
― By the River Piedra I Sat Down and Wept
But ultimately there is no good reason for our suffering, for in every love lies the seed of our growth. The more we love, the closer we come to spiritual experience. Those who are truly enlightened, those whose souls are illuminated by love, have been able to overcome all of the inhibitions and preconceptions of their era. They have been able to sing, to laugh, and to pray out loud; they have danced and shared what Saint Paul called “the madness of saintliness.” They have been joyful—because those who love conquer the world and have no fear of loss. True love is an act of total surrender.”
― By the River Piedra I Sat Down and Wept
“Won't you come into the garden? I would like my roses to see you.”
―
―
“I don't do anything with my life except romanticize and decay with indecision.”
― The Book of Martyrdom and Artifice: First Journals and Poems, 1937-1952
― The Book of Martyrdom and Artifice: First Journals and Poems, 1937-1952
“Those who are truly enlightened, those whose souls are illuminated by love, have been able to overcome all of the inhibitions and preconceptions of their era. They have been able to sing, to laugh, and to pray out loud; they have danced and shared what Saint Paul called 'the madness of saintliness'. They have been joyful - because those who love conquer the world and have no fear of loss. True love is an act of total surrender.”
― By the River Piedra I Sat Down and Wept
― By the River Piedra I Sat Down and Wept
Madison’s 2025 Year in Books
Take a look at Madison’s Year in Books, including some fun facts about their reading.
More friends…
Polls voted on by Madison
Lists liked by Madison























