Elder Anthony of Optina
What can I say about those long awaited days when the Superior of the Skete Fr. Anthony would serve? His every move, every word and exclamation reflected purity, meekness and reverence, and at the same time a holy feeling of majesty. I have never seen anywhere else such church services, although I have visited many monasteries and churches.One of the books you sent me greatly impressed me, and I want to follow a rule from it, which is: To hold the world in contempt and to seek the Heavenly Kingdom is the highest wisdom; by stillness and silence the pious soul is greatly strengthened and understands the mysteries of the Scripture. I wish and desire to be as you are; even though I don't yet know what to do, I still desire to be like you. --From a letter of Elder Anthony to his brother, Elder Moses.