Письмо 50

You write about the fragility of your imaginary world; this cannot be otherwise. St. Isaac the Syrian writes: “When you find peace on your path unchanged, then fear” (sl. 78); through various opposite cases, our rotten structure and the science of patience are revealed to us, so that we are not idle and careless (since A. Ya., having secured himself, wants to fly straight to heaven, arrogantly); If you yourself find that everything that happens to you brings you benefit and spiritual success, then give thanks in everything to the Lord, who wants us all to be saved, and come into the understanding of truth (1 Tim. 2:4). I read A.Ya.’s letters; one can see her great zeal for the monastery; but with hope not in God, but in providing for his brother; and at the same time arrogant. She is now ready for anything, only imaginary, but in reality it will turn out differently. You notice that she is proud; That’s why I don’t want to suffer poverty and be obligated to others. She, having been with you, tasted tenderness, and thinks that it will always remain with her inseparably; and therefore strives for Tabor; but this only showed that there is; but you must first visit Calvary and accept the cross of mental and physical sorrows; then, with patience and humility, consolation is also given. When we suffer with Christ, we will also be glorified with Him (Rom. 8:18). It seems to me that she still needs to live in peace for her parents, as she promised to serve them. Leaving brotherly help, and looking to God for her parents, she wants to quickly fly to heaven: let her not rush, the matter will be stronger; otherwise, even after entering the monastery, he will not find peace: he will be ashamed to suffer about his parents. Let her pray to the Lord that He will direct her path to salvation and tell her parents to let her go with love; and until then the Lord will preserve her there; just let him humble himself in everything, and not be exalted. I remain a wisher of health and salvation to all of you, much-sinned I.M. December 25, 1845. You might be interested in: