Five Lessons from the Desert
( Vendimian of Bythinia (Menologion of Basil II) - found here ) “Nearly two thousand years ago, a young man wandered off into the Egyptian desert. Some thought he was crazy. But many others would soon follow in his stead. His name was Anthony, and those who likewise ventured off into the desert became known as the Desert Fathers. In the desert, these hermits and monks dedicated themselves to asceticism and prayer. One of the fruits of their endeavor is The Sayings of the Desert Fathers , a piecemeal collection of their delightful and profound anecdotes. We have thousands of these proverbs and parables—from over a hundred Desert Fathers (and Mothers). ... Here are five sayings of the Desert Fathers: #1, from Abba Poeman Abba Poemen said: ‘Teach your mouth to say that which you have in your heart.’ In only a few words, Abba Poeman tells us what it means to be honest. It’s not just about satisfying [a] commandment—rather, speaking from the heart is a necessary condition for friendship. U...
