Continued 2

“But I see also joy, the joy that comes -- as I see it -- from seeking to become more responsive to God and to the 'other' and less responsive to the self, overcoming the pull of more primitive inclinations”.

Yes I agree, but all our senses (primitive inclinations and powers) must be kept from those things which lead to transgression but this can only come about in obedience to His inviolate Word, as this obedience will save us from our sins, not in them.
Yes I agree “Humility is freedom from pride” but it is more than that (St. Bernard-Humility a virtue by which a man knowing himself as he truly is abases himself) as it leads us to give glory to our Father in heaven in obedience to His Word (Will) as defined by Jesus Christ, we all fall short of His Word and those who love/serve Him can do no other but bow down in humility before Him. As we all still stand in the mire.

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