As I am reading, I will often copy meaningful quotes into my journal. One of the books I am currently reading is called The Ladder of Divine Ascent by John Climacus, a monk from many centuries ago. Here is a quote I’d like to share:
Mortification of the appetite, nightlong toil, a ration of water, a short measure of bread, the bitter pill of dishonor – these will show you the narrow way. Derided, mocked, jeered, you must accept the denial of your will. You must patiently endure opposition, suffer neglect without complaint, put up with violent arrogance. You must be ready for injustice, and not grieve when you are slandered; you must not be angered by contempt and you must show humility when you have been condemned. Happy are those who follow this road and avoid other highways. Theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
WOW!!! While this was written for monks, I still feels that this passage hits the nail on the head for me. Self denial, dishonor, toil — these are NOT easy pills to swallow. However, I can see the wisdom in them for attempting to overcome pride, gluttony, a strong self will, and selfishness.
That is a nice quote. Those are things I need to work on, too.
Heather, have you come across this layman’s guide (linked below) for reading the Ladder? The author, Fr. John, really makes the connections between the steps of the spiritual ladder and the life of those “in the world.” I highly recommend it, as I found the Ladder to be hard to consistently apply to my life as a wife and mother.
Check it out. I’ve read through it twice. It’s a great read for Lent as well.
http://www.amazon.com/Ascending-Heights-John-Mack/dp/1888212179/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1/102-3444865-2168111?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1187291041&sr=8-1
Katherine:
Thank you for the recommendation. I just went onto Amazon.com and ordered it. I look forward to getting my hands on it!!!
Blessings,
Heather