St. Thérèse of Lisieux, also known as the “Little Flower,” left behind a profound legacy of spirituality that continues to inspire and guide people around the world. Central to her spirituality is something called “spiritual childhood,” a state of profound simplicity, trust, and childlike faith.

It is worth pointing out that the above photo is the door into the cloister where St. Thérèse, lived, wrote, and then died. The very doors in which she passed to enter a life set apart from the world, to dedicate what was known only to God to be a few years, to complete meditation and devotion to the divine.

St. Thérèse believed in embracing a life of simplicity and humility. She once said, “The splendor of the rose and the whiteness of the lily do not rob the little violet of its scent nor the daisy of its simple charm.” Through these words, she reminds us that true greatness lies not in external achievements, rather it lies in our humble acceptance of who we are and the gifts our Creator has given us. We find contentment and joy in our spiritual journey by letting go of the need for recognition and embracing simplicity.

For St. Thérèse, trust in God’s love was at the core of her spiritual childhood. She believed that just as a child places complete trust in their parents, we should surrender ourselves entirely to the loving embrace of our Heavenly Father. “I know of only one thing that can give us great joy in the midst of our troubles, and that is to love and be loved by God.” Her example teaches us to trust in God’s providence, even in the face of challenges and uncertainties.

She understood that true faith does not require intellectual complexity but rather a heart open to God’s love. “What matters in life is not great deeds but great love.” St. Thérèse reminds us to approach our relationship with God with the innocence and simplicity of a child, letting go of doubts and embracing the sheer joy of faith.

St. Thérèse emphasized the importance of performing little acts of love for others. She believed that even the smallest actions, done with great love, has the power to transform lives. St. Thérèse wrote, “Miss no single opportunity of making some small sacrifice, here by a smiling look, there by a kindly word; always doing the smallest right and doing it all for love.” So great were these small acts, that they changed her heart, she grew to love those whom she disliked.

Spiritual childhood teaches us the significance of nurturing an intimate relationship with God. She described prayer as “a surge of the heart; it is a simple look turned toward heaven.” She invites us to approach prayer with sincerity, engaging in heartfelt conversations with God. St. Thérèse reminds us that we can encounter God in the ordinary moments of life and that our relationship with Him should be characterized by love and by trust.

St. Thérèse of Lisieux’s spiritual childhood offers profound lessons on living a life of simplicity, trust, and faith. Her teachings inspire us to embrace trust in God’s love and to practice little acts of love that nurture a deep relationship with God. By applying these principles to our own lives, we can experience a deeper connection with the divine.