“If you are not cleansed through frank confession, how will you approach to receive the immaculate and life-creating Mysteries of Christ? Haven’t you heard that they bring life to those who partake worthily, and death to those who receive unworthily?  Do not say, “I am just like the others,” for this is foolishness, and the Judge cannot be deceived. Every thought which brings despair and excessive grief is from the devil, and you should reject it immediately, for it will cut the thread of prayer. Every thought which causes moderate grief within the soul, mixed with joy and tears, is from God. The grace of God never drives a person to despair, but only leads him to repentance.”