Dryness, cravings: necessary purifications.
Dryness and weariness in the spiritual life are necessary as a paternal purification, so that by detaching yourself from yourselves, from your own joys, you may prove to God your Father an affection above your likes and your feelings … There are Souls that are united to him when he caresses them and comforts them, but the test of true love is to remain faithful in darkness
What meritorious acts the soul produces then; Acts more pure and generous, real acts, which are truly a glory, a joy, for the Heart of your God, a tribute of preference that transports you. This purification you can not do if the Lord your Father does not deign to lay his hand on it.
In an hour of dryness and displeasure you do more than in years of consolation, if you are faithful in remaining in Me, firm in your faith and your confidence, in charity. Mary has passed through the crucible, and see how much I have suffered. Meditate what is told of Me in the Gospel, in my agony and in Calvary: anguish, boredom, sadness, terrors, fainting, agonies … What are your pains beside those?
(Writings Of Sr Marie Therese Desandais VHM)