The Importance of Detachment

"Perhaps you will say: 'Why should I give so much importance to this detachment and be so rigorous about it, for God gives consolations to those who are not so detached?' I believe He does do this, for in His infinite wisdom He sees that this is fitting so as to draw them to give up everything for Him. I do not call 'giving up everything' entering religious life, for there can be impediments to entering religious life, and the perfect soul can be detached and humble anywhere; although this latter may involve greater trial, for being in a monastery is a big help. But believe me in one thing: if there is any vain esteem of honor or wealth (and this can be had inside monasteries as well as outside, although inside the occasions for it are more removed and the fault would be greater), you will never grow very much or come to enjoy the true fruit of prayer. And this is so even though you may have many years experience in prayer - or, better, I should say reflection because perfect prayer in the end removes these bad habits."

- St. Teresa of Avila, The Way of Perfection, 12:5