Письмо 137
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One cannot be surprised at our fossilization of which you complain; God comforts the poor in spirit and the humble in heart. Let's look into our hearts, is there even a small reserve of this treasure there? Isn't there a different kind of acquisition nesting there? Where there is no light, there is, of course, darkness. Although we reproach ourselves with our lips, even with a little humiliation from the outside, heartfelt confusion and indignation, and sometimes retribution with words, show us a dispensation that is contrary to our words - pride. What should we do? There are no spiritual exploits, and there is no humility; How do we want to have tenderness or spiritual consolation? We must always have self-reproach, not only with our lips, but also with our hearts, and not shy away from those who heal us with God’s guidance, with annoyances and reproaches, but also consider them our benefactors. If we read books not only for the sake of curiosity, but also force us to fulfill them, and struggle with passions, and moreover, when we humble ourselves, then we will find peace and trust in His mercy. The sinful hieromonk Macarius. March 17, 1842.
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