Snow can never emit flame.

Water can never issue fire.

A thorn bush can never produce a fig

Just so, your heart can never be free

from oppressive thoughts, words, and actions

until it has purified itself internally.

Be eager to walk this path.

Watch your heart always.

Constantly say the prayer

'Lord, have mercy on me.'

Be humble.

Set your soul in quietness.

-Hesychios

The Book of Mystical Chapters-Meditations on the Soul's Ascent

from the Desert Fathers and Early Christian Contemplatives