RULES FOR LIVING

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Let yourself be persecuted, but do not persecute others.
Let yourself be crucified, but do not crucify others.
Let yourself be insulted, but do not insult others.
Let yourself be slandered, but do not slander others.
Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep.
Such is the sign of purity.
Suffer with the sick. Be afflicted with sinners.
Exult with those who repent. Be the friend of all.
But in your spirit remain alone.
Spread your cloak over anyone who falls into sin and shield him.
And if you cannot take his fault on yourself and accept punishment
in his place, and do not destroy his character.

St. Isaac of Syria