St. Symeon the New Theologian: You should be ready each day to receive all kinds of afflictions...

You should be ready each day to receive all kinds of afflictions, regarding them as your release from many sins; and you should thank God for them.

Through them you may acquire a close and unimpeachable communion with God, in accordance with St. Paul’s words: ‘Afflictions produce patient endurance; patient endurance, strength of character; and strength of character, hope; and hope does not disappoint’ (Rom. 5:3-5).

St. Symeon the New Theologian