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Thanks for your kind words. I am glad you enjoyed it. I have come to really appreciate the work of von Balthasar, and of course the true beauty of St. Therese.

Also, welcome to the forum and to our Catholic caucus! =)

There was nothing Therese feared more than to find herself settling debts with God. And since it is only grown-ups who settle debts she intends at all costs to preserve that relationship which one finds amongst children when they are dealing with each other. She simply will not grow old, and so will not be obliged to earn heaven. She wants no reward: "At Sext a verse occurs in the Divine Office which I recite each day with reluctance; it is this: 'I have inclined my heart to do Thy justifications for ever, because of the reward'. I hasten to add in my heart, 'O my Jesus, You know well that I do not serve You for reward, but solely because I love You and in order to save souls.'

I have come to really appreciate the work of von Balthasar

I didn't realize till later that I have that chapter in the following compilation: TWO SISTERS IN THE SPIRIT: Therese of Lisieux & Elizabeth of the Trinity.

I had read other books that helped me learn to appreciate The Little Way, but it was this book that gave me a huge insight that has proved invaluable to me:

"She reads scripture in light of her mission. Nor does she attempt to broaden the scope of what she takes to be her task; she leaves aside anything not directly bearing on it."

When I am in doubt, it is extremely helpful to ponder the great confidence she placed in the solitary scripture passages she found.

And thanks for the welcome. I just recently discovered FreePublic and am mildly enjoying "discussing" with the non-Catholics, but given it will ultimately prove to be a waste of time I'll look forward to solely discovering more Catholic treasures like your St. Therese post. God Bless.