Глава 5. О том, что подвижнику надобно заниматься приличными ему работами

The ascetic must engage in decent work, which is free from any fuss, long-term entertainment and unaffordable profits, which for the most part we can do while remaining under our own roof, so that the work gets done and silence is observed. And if, out of necessity, it was necessary to carry out work in the open air, then even this would not hinder wisdom. For in the strict sense, the wise man, having his own body as a shelter and safe haven for the soul, even if he happens to be in the market, or in a solemn meeting, or on a mountain, or in a field, or among a crowd of people, is always confined in this natural monastery of his, collecting his mind inside and philosophizing about what is appropriate for him. You can, while sitting at home, wander with your thoughts outside, and while at the market, but maintaining sobriety, be as if in the desert, turn only to yourself and to God and not perceive with your feelings those rebellions that are produced in the soul by sensory objects. You might be interested in: