The Royal Road of the Holy Cross

Why then do you fear to take up the cross by which alone you can reach the crown? In the cross is salvation, in the cross is life, in the cross is sure protection from enemies, in the cross is an abundance of heavenly delight, in the cross is courage, in the cross is gladness of heart, in the cross is all virtue, in the cross is the height of sanctity. There is no safety for the soul, no hope of everlasting life, but in the cross. Take up your cross, then, and follow Jesus, and you will enter into life eternal. He has gone before you carrying His cross, and died for you upon the cross that you, too, might have strength to carry your cross, and be willing to die upon the cross. For if you die with Him, you will also live with Him; if you have been a share in His suffering, you will share also in His glory.

The Imitation of Christ by Thomas a Kempis, Bk II, Ch XII