Stillness, which is the basis of the soul’s purification, makes the observance of the commandments relatively painless. “Flee,” it has been said, “keep silence, be still, for herein lies the roots of sinlessness.” Again it has been said: “Flee men and you will be saved.” For human society does not permit the intellect to perceive either its own faults or the wiles of the demons, so as to guard itself against them. Nor, on the other hand, does it allow the intellect to perceive God’s providence and bounty, so as to acquire in this way knowledge of God and humility. –St Peter of Damaskos ‘Philokalia’