The pamphlet that fluttered off my bookshelf was this one:
"The prayer" writes Princess Ileana of Romania "has opened unbelievable vistas within my heart and soul."
The simple prayer---Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy upon me, a sinner---is best said alone and in silence. Thinking the prayer as we breathe in and out calms both mind and body. This prayer repeated quietly, unhurriedly, thougthfully allows us to concentrate on Jesus, forgetting all else, both joys and sorrows.
The daily habit of praying "Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy upon me, a sinner" transforms personal effort to lead a Holy life into a mystical passivity that allows the peace of God to enter our soul. This transformation is comparable to the difference between rowing a boat and sailing one. The oar is active effort to lead a Christian life
while the unfurled sail catches the divine wind.
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