PHILOKALIA MINISTRIES

⸻ Night in the desert. Abba Arsenius sat alone in his cell and discovered something terrible. A man can say he is nothing and still remain the center of his own life. The old man bowed his head. “I fled the world,” he said quietly. “I fled the court. I fled the praise of men. I fled power and learning.” He placed his hand upon his chest. “But this followed me.” The heart continued to beat. “I call myself dust before God. I accuse myself. I confess my weakness.” Silence filled