Письмо 278
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I am very glad that T. G. did not become rigid in the world, but came to the monastery, and that it was the will of the mother abbess, in accordance with her will, to place her in your cell; she is young, inexperienced, and still does not understand anything about our monastic life; She needs to learn this alphabet through experience, and with experienced people. However, do not consider me to consider you as such, but out of need - and you will serve in this matter; and even more so when she had not yet jumped into this matter herself, but by the will of God she was transferred to you, and appointed mother abbess. At least do the things St. writes about. John Climacus: that having sunk themselves in the mud, they warn others against it; and for the sake of the benefit received by others, God will save them too.
Your fear and doubt of your heart are empty; I remember that it comes from the lack of humility, in which, according to the teaching of our Savior, peace is found (Matthew 11:29). Control your freedom, and do not be afraid of slander and slander; even if they were, we would have to endure something; How can you learn patience when you don’t have occasions to do so? and you, not seeing anything, think about the past, but don’t know how long our life will last,
Your desire to have the kingdom of heaven as a pledge is very dangerous, and close to delusion, if you thought of having it. Blessed are those who have not seen and who have believed. St. Theognostus orders to ask for notification, but at death itself, which is the safest. Your unworthy pilgrim, the great sinner I.M. October 19, 1843.
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