Thou hast heard already what thy soul is, and what dignity and beauty it had, and how it lost it, and also how it may by grace and busy travail be somewhat recovered again, in feeling, in part in this life. Now I shall tell thee (according to my feeble ability) how thou mayest enter into thyself to see the ground of sin, and destroy it as much as thou canst, and so recover a part of thy soul’s dignity. (John Climacus)

I have been in conversation with Climacus - climbing his stair - since the beginning of Lent.

Conversation was a struggle at the start. But I am better at listening than early on, more familiar with his hopes and concerns.

We have discussed contemplaton, God's gifts, and the nature of the human soul. The next several chapters focus on sin.

I am not thrilled at the prospect of spending the summer and probably more on pride, envy, wrath, covetousness, and the whole gang.

But may I listen more carefully, precisely because of my reluctance.