Letter 336: Theodore Studite, Letter 336; Greek heading: Εὐχαρίστῳ τέκνῳ.

It is altogether necessary for me to write to you, my child, even though you yourself did not ask for it. For are you not praiseworthy and deserving of welcome, in that almost alone you endure toils and the dangers and hardships of journeying, ministering to the holy archbishop? How blessed is your work, how worthy of an athlete [a contender in the spiritual contest] is your performance! In the midst of snares you have chosen to pass, to walk upon coals of fire; for such are the doings of the impious. But still be strong, my child, and play the man. Fulfill your ministry, multiply the talent [the entrusted sum, cf. Matthew 25], so that it may go well with you and you may be counted blessed unto the ages. For the rest, pray also for me, your lowly father.