Bows and Arrows

Once Abbot Antony was conversing with some breathen, and a hunter who was after game in the wilderness came upon them. He saw Abbot Antony and the brothers enjoying themselves, and disapproved. Abbot Antony said, "Put an arrow in your bow and shoot it."

This he did.

"Now shoot another," said the Elder. "And another, and another."

Then the hunter said, "If I bend my bow all the time it will break."

Abbot Anthony replied, "So it is also in the work of God. If we push ourselves beyond measure, the breathen will soon collapse. It is right therefore, from time to time, to relax."



Soli Deo Gloria