All of our modern philosophies have been devised to convince us that our own good and highest enjoyment is to be found here, on this earth, now. In fact, "Almost our whole education has been directed to silencing the shy, persistent, inner voice" that calls our attention to the truth that this world is not all there is. The shy voice says, "There is more!"
The truth is, our real goal is elsewhere. Earth cannot be made into heaven. We are in exile on earth - our fatherland is not here and now. The sun will burn out. The universe will roll up like a scroll, and we will die. What hope is there here?
We remain aware of a longing which no natural happiness will satisfy. Our desire for Paradise does not prove that I will enjoy it (any more than my desire for bread proves I'll get some), but it does give us a good indication that Paradise exists and that some people will enjoy it. Our secret longings (and the glimpse of their satisfaction we fleetingly experience) all point us to heaven. Our real desire is for heaven.
Reflection #10, on The Weight of Glory
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