There are few works on the spiritual life in the West that can match the insight and sheer beauty of those of the 16th-century Spanish Carmelite, St. John of the Cross. Together with Teresa of Avila, he started a reform movement attempting to forge a new style of religious life. Included are his most stirring works, including selections from his classic The Dark Night, where he expands on the role of darkness in the spiritual journey. I abandoned and forgot myself/Laying my face on my beloved;/ All things ceased; I went out from myself,/ Leaving my cares forgotten among the lilies.