The one who neglects contemplation is at risk of being motivated and driven by false-self compulsions. When one neglects giving attention to his interior life, he is not master of his house. His “programs for happiness” control him and he goes through life unaware that his “service” is more truly frenetic activity. He is not only blind to the real needs of those he serves, but to his own needs as well. True acts of service do not build up our egos but bring us into deeper solidarity with the poor, marginalized and victims of injustice, who compel us to prayer.

Pilgrimage of a Soul: Contemplative Spirituality for the Active Life, Ch 5. p 88-89