In the midst of desert beauty - Среде пустинската убост

 

"In the midst of desert beauty, in the caves and on the hills, where the flowers blossom purely and the birds’ song can be heard. It’s the home of peaceful beings, like the flowers, wild and strong, splendid as the rose or better, they are Monks of Christ the Lord. They have left the world of honours, parted with their kin and friends, so to find just God and Angels, as their only relatives. Day and night their chant continues for their only Bridegroom Christ, who is giving them adornment of immeasurable grace. Even earlier than sunrise, just before the dawn has shone, just before the birds’ first song starts, they are praying, hands aloft. And the Angels stand alongside as they pray to God with bliss, they are serving to their prayer, taking it to Heaven’s throne. As they hold the prayer rope tight, with the hands worn out of work, they are constant in the reading of the godlike men’s advice. With the thoughts they’re in the highest, in the Heavenly concerns, looking like the leafless trees and with the guise of lifeless man. When the ringing of the bells starts and the semantron gives mark to begin with morning service, life is changing for the Monk. They have given us the habit, the sartorial of Saints, they have handed us the Cross and so we head for Golgotha. Joy is also found in meals here, since the food is blessed too, and how poor it may be, still it gives some cheerfulness to all. This is why some Kings have left all, their own palaces and crowns and enclosed themselves in dark cells, without any honours there. Of what favour can be loving siblings, friends and relatives, since in time of death’s arrival, no one is of any help. I may lifelong wear the habit, that’s not even close enough, I’m supposed to leave behind me everything that’s in this world. So, I wish you all wellbeing, my dear friends and relatives, not a moment any longer can I stand in worldly life..."