Episode 19: Donkey on the Loose

Donkey on the Loose - Mastering Speech with Abba Antony

🏜️ Welcome to Desert Fathers in a Year!

In this episode of Desert Fathers in a Year, we dive into a timeless Desert Fathers story where brothers journey to meet Abba Antony, joined by a silent elder who offers profound wisdom. His metaphor of a "donkey on the loose" critiques their unrestrained speech, revealing the power of self-mastery over words. We explore how this ancient lesson applies today, in a world of endless chatter and social media noise. Discover why restraint in speech, not just food, is key to spiritual growth and inner strength.

Key Topics Covered:

• The Desert Fathers’ journey to Abba Antony and the silent elder’s wisdom
• The "donkey on the loose": Why unrestrained speech drains inner vitality
• Antony’s legacy as a spiritual father through fidelity to his calling
• Self-mastery beyond fasting: Controlling the "movements of the soul"
• Applying ancient wisdom to modern habits of oversharing

Why Listen?

Perfect for listeners seeking spiritual wisdom, self-discipline, or insights into early Christian teachings. This episode unpacks how mindful speech fosters deeper connections and personal growth, inspired by the Desert Fathers.

Available On: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts

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We owe a special thanks to our partners. Desert Fathers in a Year is...

• 🦉...written by Bishop Erik Varden. You can follow Bishop Varden on his blog.

• 🎥 ...produced by EWTN

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