One of the reasons that suddenness is such an important aspect of the spiritual life is that it keeps us focused on God. In hiddenness, we do not receive human acclamation, admiration, support, or encouragement. In hiddenness, we have to go to God with our sorrows and joys and trust that God will give us what we most need. In our society we are inclined to avoid suddenness. We want to be seen and acknowledged. We want to be useful to others and influence the course of events. But as we become visible and popular, we quickly grow dependent on people and their responses and easily lose touch with God, the true source of our being. Suddenness is the place of purification. In hiddenness, we find our true selves.

Bread for the Journey: A Daybook of Wisdom and Faith