The soul of a man is a life consisting of three powers, Memory, Understanding and Will, after the image and likeness of the Blessed Trinity; inasmuch as the Memory was made strong and stedfast by the power of the Father to hold and retain God in perpetual remembrance, without forgetting, distracting or letting of any creature, and so it hath the likeness of the Father. The Understanding was made bright and clear, without error or darkness, as perfectly as a soul in a body unglorified could have, and so it hath the likeness and image of the Son, who is infinite wisdom. The Will and affections were made pure and clean, burning in love towards God, without sensual love of the flesh or of any creature by the sovereign goodness of God the Holy Ghost, and so it hath the likeness of the Holy Ghost, which is blessed love. Whereby you may see that man’s soul (which may be called a created Trinity) was in its natural estate replenished in its three powers with the remembrance, sight and love of the most blessed uncreated Trinity, which is God. (John Climacus)

My memory is faulty. It does not recall completely or accurately. It too often retrieves that which is not helpful.

My understanding is limited and prone to error. It is especially troubled by fear. It can over-complicate and obscure.

My will is easily confused and distracted. I hesitate, second-guess, and even when I engage, may choose to retreat.

These are the essential gifts. I have received them. I have opened them. I use them. But I have too often failed to care for the gifts and can even abuse them.