Chapter 7
In the next chapter Merton talks about the subtle satisfaction that comes from doing good being used to prop up the ego and make one feel distinct from others. This leads to an unhelpful sense of pride which divides one from one’s neighbors. Merton says that I can only truly find myself in community/communion with other people.
“In order to live I have to die”
“People who know nothing of God and whose lives are centered on themselves, imagine that they can only find themselves by asserting their own desires and ambitions….”
“The one who lives in division is not a person but only and “individual”
Spiritual pride is taking something good that I have done and claiming it for myself instead of giving gratitude and glory to God.
The Good that I do should not cause me to presume myself distinct from the world and others.
“When a proud man/woman thinks he is humble his case is hopeless.”
“I must look for my identity, somehow, not only in God, but in other people.” otherwise I will never find myself.
