Transcending Criticism: Desert Wisdom to Modern Life

Recently, I have been spending some time with Thomas Merton’s “The Wisdom of the Desert,” a collection of sayings from the early Christian desert fathers and mothers. One gem caught my attention, a saying from one of the elders that seems as relevant today as it was in the 3rd century:

One of the elders used to say: In the beginning when we got together we used to talk about something that was good for our souls, and we went up and up, and ascended even to heaven. But now we get together and spend our time in criticizing everything, and we drag one another down into the abyss.

Reading this, I couldn’t help but marvel at how little human nature has changed over the centuries. Even in the isolation of the desert, where the early monks and nuns retreated to escape the distractions of the world, the tendency to fall into criticism persisted. What did they find to criticize out there in the wilderness? Perhaps the presence of another hermit too close for comfort, or the interruption of their solitude by seekers. Regardless of the specifics, the temptation to criticize was a real challenge for them.

Today, we face this same challenge on a much grander scale. Our lives are flooded with opportunities to criticize — from the constant barrage of social media to the endless stream of news and opinions. The desert elder’s observation rings true: we easily find ourselves caught in a cycle of criticism, dragging each other down instead of lifting each other up.

So, what’s the antidote?

The elder’s wisdom suggests that instead of criticizing, we should focus on discussing things that are good for our souls. This idea is echoed in the New Testament. In his letter to the Philippians, Paul offers a similar exhortation:

Finally, beloved, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is pleasing, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. Keep on doing the things that you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, and the God of peace will be with you. (Philippians 4:8–9)

Paul’s advice encourages us not just to talk about but to dwell on things that elevate us. The focus is on what is true, honorable, just, pure, pleasing, and commendable. By doing so, we align ourselves with a higher perspective that brings peace and enriches our souls.

Embracing This Wisdom in Our Lives

How can we apply this ancient wisdom to our modern lives? Here are a few practical steps:

1. Mindful Conversations: Aim to steer conversations toward topics that inspire and uplift. This doesn’t mean ignoring problems, but balancing critical discussions with constructive and positive dialogue.

2. Conscious Consumption: Be selective about the media you consume. Choose content that informs and enriches rather than content that simply provokes outrage or criticism.

3. Reflective Thinking: Make it a habit to reflect daily on things that are true, honorable, and commendable. Keeping a gratitude journal can help reframe your outlook.

4. Practice Praise: Actively look for opportunities to praise others and recognize excellence. This can shift your focus from criticism to appreciation, fostering a more positive environment around you.

Conclusion

The desert fathers and mothers sought to grow spiritually by focusing on what was good for their souls. Despite the simplicity of their lives, they struggled with the same tendencies that challenge us today. Their wisdom reminds us that the path to spiritual and emotional well-being lies not in criticism but in the pursuit of higher, soul-nourishing conversations and reflections.

Let us strive to talk more about things that elevate our souls and less about what drags us down. By doing so, we can aspire to ascend, metaphorically speaking, to heights of peace and contentment. The next time we find ourselves slipping into the abyss of criticism, may we remember these words of wisdom and choose to rise instead.

This timeless advice from the desert fathers, echoed by Paul, offers a profound lesson: in a world where criticism is often the norm, focusing on what uplifts and inspires can lead us to greater peace. As we incorporate this wisdom into our daily lives, the God of peace will be with us, and He will make us grow in sanctification and create a more enriching environment for ourselves and those around us.

Thiago Silva