We can try to get through life without joy, generosity and self-knowledge, but it’s going to be very difficult, and it’s going to be very unreal.

It takes determination and humility to live a life of commitment in Carmel, but it also takes a sense of humor. No one gets far without that.

I lie down in peace and sleep comes at once; for you, O Lord, are the security of my dwelling. 
(Ps. 4)

Carmel is about inner freedom, which is what detachment really means, a freedom from useless cares and preoccupations, a freedom from all the things we’re so sure are important but really aren’t. A life of prayer in Carmel is a life free for love, and that’s what matters. In the end, that’s all that matters.