Die Schreiben von Schreiber

When the demons see that in the very beginning we intend to keep aloof from the witty lecture of a coarse leader, as from an infectious disease, then they try to catch us by two thoughts, suggesting to us: ‘Do not offend the story-teller,’ or: ‘Do not appear to love God more than they do.’ Be off! Do not dally, otherwise at the time of your prayer the jokes will recur to your mind. And not only run, but even piously disconcert the bad company by offering for their general attention the thought of death and judgment. For perhaps it is better for you to be sprinkled with a few drops of vainglory, if only you can become a channel of profit for many. -Saint John of Sinai, The Ladder of Divine Ascent   "The witty lecture of a coarse leader."   Sorry, what? St. John is writing in this chapter about the dangers of verbosity and joking. Proverbs cautions us that "In the multitude of words sin is not lacking, But he who restrains his lips is wise." St. John warns that a per...

 Ladies and Gentlemen Please Would you bring your attention to me? I want to tell you a little bit about myself. There is no more important topic, after all. I'm an Orthodox Christian because I did a lot of research and I read a lot of books which led me to decide that Orthodoxy was the correct faith, and so I should be there since I know the truth. You can see me in church. I mean, how could you miss me? Have you seen my vestments? They are legit! I got them custom tailored by monks in Holy Rus! I chose them because they are the most vivid colors and the brightest gold. The embroidered cross on my back really sparkles. So I spend most of the liturgy in the altar, the holiest place, of course. Where else would I be. But when I come out, you can see my piety and devotion in my bows and movements. And the voice! Oh have you heard me chanting? It's pretty much what angels sound like. By the way, when I do come out of the altar, you'll see me limping. That's because I'm...