Nothing is accidental in this life

Once, in order to correct a brother for his many faults, the Elder, using examples from nature and life, said to him:

‒ Know, my child, that nothing is accidental in this life. Everything has a purpose and nothing happens without a cause. Not a needle falls from a fir tree unless God wills it. Therefore, you should not grieve, whatever happens to you. This is how we become holy! Look, now you grieve because of your household, but they are actually helping you to reach spiritual heights. If it weren’t for them, you wouldn’t grow at all. God gave them to you. You will say to me: “But is it good for a person to suffer because of their loved ones?” Well, that is exactly what God wants from us! And you are very sensitive and, from anger, your stomach hurts; you feel empty in your stomach, don’t you?

‒ Yes, Father, but it is so bad to be sensitive.

‒ Yes, it is bad to be sensitive as you are, because, because of your anger, you have acquired various physical illnesses. Don't you know yet that mental illnesses are also illnesses?

‒ No.

‒ Well, now find out from me!

Saint Porphyry the Kafsokalyvit

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