“Nothing in life is ritual.”

“(Jesus speaking) "An awful lot of what is done in my name has nothing to do with me and is often, even if unintentional, very contrary to my purposes.”

“Through . . . lies you try to run your life and manipulate others. . . . Lies become an inhibitor in your relationship . . . .”

“You want to know why I live here, in this ‘hovel’; I think thatis the word you used, based on your civilized and educatedperception?”There was no use denying it. “Yes, I was wondering. Sowhy?”“It was the best you could give me.” She didn’t turn from herwork.“Excuse me? The best ‘I’ could give you? I had nothing to dowith this. I could build you something much better, but not this.How could you think…?”“It’s all right, Anthony! I have no expectations. I am grateful tohave found even this small place in your heart. I travel light”—she smiled as if at some secret thought—“and I make my homeinside the simplest gifts. There is nothing to feel bad or ashamedabout. I am thoroughly grateful, and being here is a joy!”“So… because this is me, my world somehow, I have onlymade this small place for you?”

“Why do children love to hide and seek? Ask any person who has a passion to explore and discover and create. The choice to hide so many wonders from you is an act of love that is a gift inside the process of life.”

“Why would the God of the universe want to be submitted to me?'Because we want you to join us in our circle of relationship. I don't want slaves to my will; I want brothers and sisters who will share life with me.”

“...you are surrounded by beauty, the wonder of Creation, art, your music and culture, the sounds of laughter and love, of whispered hopes and celebrations, of new life and transformation, of reconciliation and forgiveness. These also are the results of your choices and every choice matters, even the hidden ones.”