ATTENTION is the first teacher of truth and consequently absolutely
necessary. Attention rouses the soul to study itself and its longings, to learn
their true character and repulse those that are unholy. Attention is the
guardian angel of the intellect, always counseling it this : be attentive.
Attention awakens the soul, rouses it from sleep... Attention examines every
thought, every desire, every memory. Thoughts, desires, and memories are
engendered by various causes, and often appear masked and with splendid garb,
in order to deceive the inattentive intellect and enter into the soul and
dominate it. Only attention can reveal their hidden form. Often their
dissimulation is so perfect that the discernment of their true nature is very
difficult and requires the greatest attention. One must remember the saving words
of the Lord: "Be wakeful and pray that ye enter not into temptation."
He who is wakeful does not enter into temptation, because he is vigilant and
attentive.
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