To work for fulfillment

in religious life

is much like trying

to catch up with one's own shadow;

each step towards it

makes it recede

by just that much.

Fulfillment

must come

as God's free gift,

It cannot be earned,

programmed,

demanded.

Because you... have not asked for yourself long life nor

riches nor the life of your enemies, but have asked for

yourself understanding to perceive justice; behold, I have

done according to your word... I give you also what you

did not ask, both riches and honor, so that, all your days,

there shall not be any like you among the kings.

(1 Kings 3:1-13)