Darkness and Light

Detail of stained glass window at St. Michael's Cathedral.
Photo credit.

The first and principal benefit caused by the arid and dark night of contemplation: the knowledge of oneself and of one’s misery. The soul learns to commune with God with more respect and more courtesy. God will enlighten the soul, giving it knowledge, not only of its lowliness and wretchedness, but of the greatness and excellence of God.    

                                   – St. John of the Cross