"To have eternal life it is essential to love without regard for one’s own interest. Fleeing sin for fear of punishment is not enough to give eternal life, nor is it enough to embrace virtue for one’s own profit. No, one must rise from sin because sin displeases [God], and love virtue for love of [...]
"When children begin to use their reason, fathers and mothers should take great pains to fill their hearts with the fear of God. This the good Queen Blanche did most earnestly by St. Louis, her son: witness her oft-repeated words, 'My son, I would sooner see you die than guilty of a mortal sin,' words [...]
"If you wish to make progress in virtue, live in the fear of the Lord, do not look for too much freedom, disciple your senses, and shun inane silliness. Sorrow opens the door to many a blessing which dissoluteness usually destroys." Source: Thomas a’ Kempis, The Imitation of Christ, Dover Thrift Editions, 1940. [...]