In the Carmel she taught the novices her "little" way, a hidden path of obedience, and small sacrifices made with patience, great things, not big things, done for God. She fell ill, praying for priests and their mission, and missionaries of the world. Perhaps it was these prayers that eventually carried her mission of love around the world in a way she could never imagine. Therese died in the Carmel at the age of twenty-four on September 30, 1897.
God gives gifts to His chosen ones or those who seek Him or their personal Jesus, or light of love. His answers to prayer are not set within the boundaries of earthly time and Therese's life is proof of it. Can you wait for the promise of what is yours, as Therese is now showering her roses from heaven to those who seek her intercession?
Saint Therese, if you ask her, will take an interest in your life. Not only to intercede for you to God, to one day go to heaven, but she is concerned about your earthly problems as well. The saints walked this earth, struggling with human concerns such as sickness, misunderstanding, alienation, and the daily struggles of getting along with others at the office or while shopping at the market, and the sometimes delicate nature of family problems.
Yes, they lived life just as you and I try to live it, this is why it is such a popular practice to pray for their intercession. Sometimes in life we get angry at God, losing the focus of our spirituality. It is easier to relate using the example of those who once walked by His side. The saints were priviledged to do so in the manner in which He came to them, and through their examples show us how to walk beside Him as well.
