17. By enduring the infirmities of our neighbors, we are strengthened to undergo torments. For it is hard to seek that which torments, to follow that which drives away life. But for the most part the mind of the righteous extends itself to so great a summit of virtue that it both presides over itself in the citadel of inward reason, and by tolerating converts the folly of certain outward men. For it is necessary that we tolerate the infirmities of those whom we strive to draw to strong things, because no one raises up him who lies fallen, except one who through compassion bends the uprightness of his own standing. But when we have compassion on another's infirmity, we are more strongly strengthened from our own; so that by love of things to come the mind prepares itself for present adversities, and awaits the bodily torments which it feared.
For as heavenly desires are increased, it is straitened; and when it considers how great is the sweetness of the eternal homeland, it ardently loves for its sake the bitternesses of the present life. Whence, after the loathing of unsavory food, after the impossible taste of death, it is rightly subjoined: