Do not hate a sinner, for we all are to be responsible. (Issac the Syrian, Philokalia)

There are nineteen days until Rosh Hashanah. This year I intend to engage the new year, days of awe, and day of atonement with some care.

But until then, a brief series on the desert fathers. These early monastics in many ways built the foundation of Western mysticism.

There is easy mysticism, which is usually egoistic rather than truly mystic. Then there are the difficult ways and the dark nights of partnering with God.

Out of context -- as will be the case here -- the mystics can seem harsh and proud. That is usually an oversimplification.

I begin with Issac's admonition because, for me, it captures the other-love and self-criticism that is an essential characteristic of the true mystic.