St. Joseph and St. Ambrose of Optina
“Through unpleasant situations we recognize that we are impatient, and if impatient, it means self-loving. And recognition of this should dispose us to self-reproach and repentance, and to prayerfully ask the Lord for mercy-without unpleasant situations a person is inclined toward self-conceit.” (St. Joseph of Optina)
“From Holy Scripture we see that sorrows bring people closer to salvation, if a person does not become fainthearted and does not despair, but arms himself with patience, along with humility and devotion to the will of God.” (St. Ambrose of Optina)
