It’s also a way

Pain is also a path leading to God. We should never forget that. If we seek a painless, pleasure-filled life, we’re left with no struggle and, in the end, no joy. If we wish to erase pain from our life, we behave fitfully and sometimes feel greater pain and distress. According to the holy Fathers, it’s better to have an ailment that saves you than good health that condemns you to punishment. Joy and patience on the part of believers who are in sickness, gains them a martyr’s crown. The great miracle is to live with Christ.

Monk Moïsis the Athonite