The story of the conversion of the Good Thief, St Dismas, inspires us to make acts of perfect contrition. Contrition is a sorrow for sin -- an interior pain in response to the reality of sin, and a real detestation or hatred of sin.
Contrition is not primarily the emotion of sorrow, which can even be a hindrance to true spiritual growth. Rather, true contrition is expressed in the firm resolve to never sin again, and the willingness to make any sacrifice necessary so as to avoid sin.
Imperfect contrition, which is still very good and a gift from God, is to be sorry for sins so as to avoid the loss of heaven and the pains of hell. Perfect contrition, however, will be the greatest motivator -- it is to be sorry for sin because we realize how much God loves us, and also that we truly do desire to love Him in return.
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