How we cite our quotes: (Book.Chapter.Page)
Quote #1
And often while she was kept with such holy speeches and conversation, she would so weep and sob that many men were greatly astonished, for they little knew how at home our Lord was in her soul. (I.Proem.34)
The intensity of Kempe's spiritual life often overwhelms her emotionally and leaves little room for proper social behavior. But despite the appearance of distress, Kempe wouldn't give up this situation for the world, since she gets to be "homely" (familiar or intimate) with the Supreme Being of the universe.
Quote #2
Sometimes she wept very abundantly and violently out of desire for the bliss of heaven, and because she was being kept from it for so long. (I.7.54)
Although it seems like Kempe cries at the drop of a hat (actually, she kind of does, especially if that hat reminds of her main man Jesus), she has some deep and specific reasons for doing so. In this case, it's longing and desire—actual suffering for the love of God.
Quote #3
It was a great solace and comfort to her when she was chided and scolded for the love of Jesus, for reproving of sin, for speaking of virtue, for conversing about scripture, which she learned in sermons and by talking with clerks. (I.14.65)
It may seem strange that a person's spiritual life can thrive on adversity, but for Christians in general, and Kempe in particular, the worse things are in life, the better it can be for your soul. In this case, Kempe isn't being tormented for her tears and loudness. She's being tormented for doing things forbidden to women—especially talking about scripture. She will take some serious flak for this, since it is a hallmark of the Lollard heresy.