9 yearning for such a life for many years. Louis remained single for nearly fifteen years before marrying Zélie in 1858 aged thirty-five. Zélie was twenty-nine. It is frustrating that you cannot clearly see what path you are called to take. This can lead to impatience or a sense of having been abandoned. This cross of unknowing, however, can be a great gift. This time of discernment is really a period of preparation and training - preparation for and training in the religious life. For this is how one discerns. It is also a period of courtship. Throughout this stage of discernment, Jesus desires you for himself and wants you to learn how to love him more perfectly. During a Christian courtship, people discern whether they should marry. They learn about one another. They develop ways and patterns of speaking with and relating to one another. They also help one another with acts of love and service. As they discern together, they slowly and prudently start to lay a foundation for marriage. Your courtship with Christ is no different. Get to know him. Spend regular time with him in prayer. Develop a way of relating to him and being preesnt to him. Allow him into your heart. Allow him to court you and love you. In the same way that a woman will allow her fiancé to lift something heavy for her or perhaps help her father
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