The saints strongly recommend finding a spiritual director: it is hard to guide oneself in the spiritual life. Sometimes it may be impossible (see below). But it is worth praying hard to find someone suitable. This will normally be a priest, though it’s not inconceivable that it could be a Sister or a lay person.
It’s worth asking a priest for spiritual advice a few times and, if you find that they are helpful, orthodox and practical – St Francis de Sales says, “full of charity, knowledge and prudence” – you can ask to receive regular spiritual direction. You can also ask around: some priests will be known as especially helpful.
