The virtues of society are vices of the saint. The terror of reform is the discovery that we must cast away our virtues, or what we have always esteemed such, into the same pit that has consumed our grosser vices.

Summary

This quote suggests that what society considers to be virtues may be seen as vices by those individuals who strive for spiritual or moral enlightenment (saints). It implies that societal ideals and values may be contrary to the pursuit of true virtue. Additionally, the quote emphasizes that the process of reform can be intimidating, as it involves the realization that even the virtues held dear must be discarded in order to overcome deeper flaws. In essence, it highlights how challenging it can be to break away from societal norms and expectations in order to pursue a higher moral standard.

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