It is impossible to draw near to God without sorrows, without which human righteousness cannot remain unchanged... If you desire virtue, than give yourself to every affliction, for afflictions produce humility. If someone abides in virtue without afflictions, the door of pride is opened to him.

If you practice an excellent virtue without perceiving the taste of its aid, do not marvel; for until a man becomes humble, he will not receive a reward for his labor. Recompense is given, not for labor, but for humility.

If you cannot close the mouth of one who reviles his brother, at least avoid conversation with him.

Above anything, welcome silence, for it brings fruits that no tongue can speak of, neither can it be explained.

It is impossible to draw near to God without sorrows, without which human righteousness cannot remain unchanged... If you desire virtue, than give yourself to every affliction, for afflictions produce humility. If someone abides in virtue without afflictions, the door of pride is opened to him.

Do not waste this life in vain pursuits.

Someone who bears a grudge while he prays is like a person who sows in the sea and expects to reap a harvest.