Set thyself, therefore, about Humility and Charity, and using all thy diligence and industry to come by them, yet shalt thou have enough to do in getting of them. And if thou canst get them, they will direct thee, and measure thee privily and secretly, how thou shalt eat, and how thou shalt drink, and succour all thy bodily needs, that there shall no man know of it, unless thou thyself do tell it him, and that thou shalt not be in perplexity, scruples, vexation, anguishment, or heaviness, nor with any lust or adhering to the delights and likings of sensuality, but shalt do all in peace of a glad conscience with all quietness and satisfaction. I have spoken more than I thought to have done in this matter, but nevertheless do (as far as thou canst) as I say, and I hope God shall make all well. (John Climacus)

While Climacus is suspicious of sensuality, I perceive in our sensual nature sacramental potential.

Neither of us, however, are entirely confident we have fully understood God's intent regarding human sensuality.

Where Climacus and I agree, we can be more confident: If we will give all we can to humility and love, then - whatever else - we will experience the grace of God.

In humility I will listen to God and neighbor. In humility we listen to one another. In humility we celebrate each others gifts.

With love we recognize God alive in the world. In love we come to know our neighbors needs and receive their love. We respond to the needs of our neighbor and are fulfilled in love.