Письмо 116

You write that you don’t understand some passages from the book of John Climacus; be content with what you understand and try to fulfill it, and then other things will open up. It’s a pity that your mother has become weak, and this upsets you very much; so what to do? We are not immortal; God's will be done. And if He calls her to eternity, then he will end her suffering, and there he will be honored with the mercy of God. But even if you remain alone, God will not leave you; He is our loving Father and Provider, and speaks thus through the Prophet: “Even if the wife forgot her childish duties, I will not forget you (Is. 49:15). Just don’t be faint-hearted, but trust in Him; He will also send you a person who can comfort you, that is, a sister in spirit. - Do not intervene in orders that do not concern you and do not cause yourself further grief through them. Things go as they go; and whoever is in action is also responsible; and you are a private person, from this you are free and have the time and convenience to take care of your soul and the calming of your passions by resisting their actions. One must be careful in talking and in listening from others; Troubles come from this, as you yourself write. A word spoken simply will be interpreted for the worse; It is enough for us to pay attention to our salvation; the end is unknown. Mnogohreshny I.M. May 26, 1858. You might be interested in: