Thérèse is called “The Little Flower” because of her profound understanding and practice of the spiritual life. She embraced a simple and practical approach to holiness that resonated deeply with people and continues to inspire and guide them today.
The nickname “The Little Flower” comes from Thérèse’s analogy of herself as a small, delicate flower in the garden of God’s love. She saw herself as a humble and insignificant flower, hidden among the other flowers, yet still beautiful and able to bring joy to others through her fragrance.
Thérèse’s spirituality is often referred to as the “Little Way,” which emphasizes doing small acts of love and offering them to God. She believed that even the smallest actions, done with great love, have immense value in the eyes of God. This approach to spirituality resonated with many people who felt overwhelmed by the demands of traditional religious practices.
Thérèse’s understanding of the spiritual life was deeply rooted in her own experiences and struggles. She faced many challenges and sufferings throughout her life, including the death of her mother at a young age, the illness of her father, and her own battle with tuberculosis. Despite these difficulties, she remained steadfast in her faith and sought to love God and others in all circumstances.
Thérèse’s autobiography, “The Story of a Soul,” became a bestseller after her death and has been translated into numerous languages. In this book, she candidly shares her spiritual journey, offering insights and practical advice for living a life of holiness in the midst of ordinary, everyday tasks.
One of the reasons Thérèse is called “The Little Flower” is because of her popularity and influence. Her teachings have touched the hearts of millions of people around the world, and she has been declared a Doctor of the Church by Pope John Paul II, recognizing her profound wisdom and contribution to the spiritual life.
Thérèse’s simplicity and practicality also make her relatable to people of all walks of life. She understood the struggles and challenges of ordinary people and offered a spirituality that could be lived out in the midst of their daily lives. Her emphasis on small acts of love and trust in God’s mercy resonates with those who may feel overwhelmed or inadequate in their pursuit of holiness.
Thérèse is called “The Little Flower” because of her profound understanding and practice of the spiritual life. Her simplicity, practicality, and relatability have made her an influential model of sanctity for Catholics and for others seeking a deeper relationship with God. Her teachings continue to inspire and guide people in their own spiritual journeys, reminding them that even the smallest acts of love have great value in the eyes of God.