“When someone changes his way of life, should he attempt to correct the thoughts others had about him before?
St Paisios: He should not try to change the thoughts of others in a proud way; he will try first to correct himself and then the thoughts of others will be corrected or removed on their own.
If the stigma of his past sinful life remains in society or in his narrow circle, this will be erased in time by his good behavior. There is no need to talk about it at all.
Through his sincere repentance, God will speak."(1)
'Panagouda' - St Paisios' Dwelling on Mt Athos
Reflection:
Through our sincere repentance, God speaks. God speaks to the hearts of those around us when we make the sincere effort to correct ourselves and continue to live a life in humility and repentance.
God will speak, when we trust in Him to help us.
God will speak, and we will feel free from the worry of the opinions of others.
God will speak, and our relationships around us will improve.
God will speak, and our lives will be filled with His Peace.
Resources:
