The Conferences of John Cassian. Part III. Containing Conferences XVIII.-XXIV 12A question how true patience can be gained.

John Cassian · The Nicene and Post-Nicene Fathers Series II Volume XI: Sulpitius Severus, Vincent of Lerins, John Cassian by Philip Schaff

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A question how true patience can be gained.

Germanus: We should like to know how that calmness can be secured and maintained, that, as when silence is enjoined on us we shut the door of our mouth, and lay an embargo on speech, so also we may be able to preserve gentleness of heart, which sometimes even when the tongue is restrained loses its state of calmness within: and for this reason we think that the blessing of gentleness can only be preserved by one in a remote cell and solitary dwelling.