#athonite

"Stand at the brink of despair, and when you see that you cannot bear it anymore, draw back a little, and have a cup of tea."

Understand two thoughts, and fear them. One says, "You are a saint," and the other, "You won't be saved." Both of these thoughts are from the enemy, and there is no truth in them. But think this way: I am a great sinner, but the Lord is merciful. He loves people very much, and He will forgive my sins.

,,The Lord loves people, but sends them suffering so they may realize their powerlessness and humbly receive the Holy Spirit. Where the Holy Spirit is, there is goodness, joy; everything is wonderful. He who suffers greatly due to poverty and illness but does not humble himself, suffers in vain. But he who humbles himself will be content with any kind of life, because the Lord is his wealth and joy. All people will marvel at the beauty of his soul."

– Tension comes from restlessness, blessed one, the Elder continued seriously. You should solve the easy problems. Leave the difficult ones to Christ. Do not try to solve them all yourself...