The first word that we hear in the conversation with the angel at the Annunciation to Mary is, “How shall this happen, since I know not man?” It is the simple recognition of her virginal purity. She had consecrated her whole heart and all the strength of her body, soul, and spirit to the service of God in undivided surrender.
Thereby she pleased the Almighty. He accepted her surrender and blessed her with wonderful fruitfulness by raising her to be the Mother of God. She looked deeply into the mystery of virginity of which her divine Son later said, “Whoever can accept this, ought to do so.” Her heart exulted in glory as she discovered what God had prepared for those who love him.
Saint Edith Stein
For the First Profession of Sister Miriam of Little St. Thérèse July 16, 1940
Stein, E. 2014, The Hidden Life: hagiographic essays, meditations, spiritual texts, translated from the German by Stein, W, ICS Publications, Washington DC.
Carmelite Quotes 
I don’t mention this often, it is not the sort of thing to show off about. But God called me to celibacy while I was still a Methodist, and my rather surprised Minister received my public vow. This has been accepted by my Catholic priests since as real. It is something extremely precious to me. I have been refused for the consecrated and also for the secular life, as my health is too poor, but I still consider myself the bride of Christ, who called me. Giving Him top priority, in my actual day to day life, is where this is not easy to work out though, and so often I get it wrong, but He is merciful and patient.
How precious, indeed. Thanks so much for sharing!
Thank you! At your service.