BURNOUT IN SPIRITUAL LIFE. ARCHPRIEST SERGIY BARANOV

There is such a notion in the world as “emotional burnout.” Nowadays, people very often speak of burnout, which is common with the clergy, monks, and nuns who, having good intentions, sometimes come up against a brick wall. The intentions are good, but the results are bad. When does a human burn out? Imagine a fire burning: it spreads its spurts flames outwards. Its light and energy enlighten and warm the surroundings until its embers burn out, leaving nothing, but ashes. The same thing happens to us if we warm and enlighten everyone around us. This seems to be good, blessed by God, and God-willed intentions, but they may result in something negative. In fact, I have observed this in good priests and partially experienced it myself; when you live an outward life, you burn out and leave ashes behind. I agree, you did your best, you warmed and enlightened someone, but inside of you are ashes and emptiness. Spiritual life is supposed to have outward feats and acts, but the main work should take place inward