There’s a lot to learn in a monastery. One of the first things you should master is growing a thick shell. You can't let it bother you when people talk about you. That’s natural and inevitable. You have to be able to handle criticism, even when it's completely unjustified. So, nothing—no hurtful words, no disapproving looks, and no being ignored—should be taken personally or allowed to get too close. In a way, you need a shell like a turtle to protect your inner self. And at the same time, it’s best to have the memory of a mayfly when it comes to hurtful things, so you don’t hold grudges. If you can also cherish every kind word, every encouraging glance, and every heartfelt smile as treasures not to be forgotten, then you might just manage to live together in harmony.
It’s truly a great challenge to live in such close quarters within a community. And this doesn’t just refer to the limited space, but also the limited opportunities for personal interaction and the strict daily routine with all its rules.
In such a community, there are people you clash with, who annoy you, and who constantly demand your patience and generosity. And then there are those whose very presence makes your heart soar, who bring a smile to your face time and again. It’s the latter who prevent broken spirits from snapping, who help you stand up straight again, and who give you strength. But we also have to be grateful for the former, because only friction—stubborn, persistent polishing—can make rough diamonds shine.
The most important thing is to keep soft under the shell. To remain open to God and filled with love for Him. If He stays at the center, then we can endure anything.
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