Love Moves Us Forward

Love Move Us Forward is based on the writings of Saint Francis de Sales (1567 - 1622). Saint Francis de Sales was co-founder of the Visitation Order (with Saint Jane de Chantal), Bishop of Geneva, a writer, a spiritual director, and a friend to many. Throughout his works, he emphasized that spirituality begins in the heart and is expressed through one’s words and actions. In his numerous letters of spiritual direction, he offered advice on growing closer to God and serving others wherever one may find oneself, suggesting that one’s spiritual life should be practical and adaptable to one’s present situation. He taught that it was precisely in the midst of a life full of distractions that one could best practice the little virtues, including kindness, gratitude, patience, joyful optimism, humility, and gentle strength.

This book contains fifty-eight pieces of timeless wisdom from Saint Francis de Sales to help you live with authenticity and presence, deepen your spirituality, and serve others with love. Each excerpt from the 1600s was chosen because of its continued relevance in today’s world. Accompanying each quote, you will find a reflection and a simple call to action for the day.

This book is intended to serve as a resource for inspiration and positive change. There is no proper order for reading the book; turn to whichever section speaks to your heart at the moment. Allow yourself time to sit with each passage, dwell on its meaning, relate its message to your present situation, and develop strategies to incorporate the teachings into your everyday actions.