“When you are burdened, you are close to God, your strength, who abides with the afflicted. When you are relieved of the burden you are close to yourself, your own weakness; for virtue and strength of soul grow and are confirmed in the trials of patience.” GodAfflictionsCloseness To God Book:Counsels of Light and Love of St. John of the Cross Source: Counsels of Light and Love of St. John of the Cross