Who Am I?

Four Hundred Texts on Love (Third Century) 7

Posted: January 17th, 2012 | Author: | Filed under: St. Maximos the Confessor | Tags: , , | 2 Comments »

13.  If you wish to master your thoughts, concentrate on the passions and you will easily drive the thoughts arising from them out of your intellect. With regard to unchastity, for instance, fast and keep vigils, labor and avoid meeting people. With regard to anger and resentment, be indifferent to fame, dishonor and material things. With regard to rancor, pray for him who has offended you and you will be delivered.

If you are indifferent to the recognition and success of others, you will not resent them. And it is hard to remain bitter and angry toward someone when you pray for them. It’s interesting to note that fasting is considered to help discipline all physical passions.