One of the most remarkable examples of humility amongst the Saints takes the breath away. The story is about the famous Abbot of Optina Skete. As St Moses [Putilov ] reposed today, June 29, 1862, I wanted to bring it up.
I have not come across such a striking anecdote. Almost every tale passed down to the current generations concerning all true Elders, Optina and otherwise, instructs stereotypically how the Orthodox ascetic must speak and behave to attain humility. Though well meant, these stories have no sparkle ; some are counterproductive. The reader becomes discouraged at how superhuman are the True Elders in their humility.
The example below, however, can be copied by ALL readers, as it is simple but deep.
From his birth in 1782, the future Fr Moses was not necessarily a model of humility, as he was known as a fiery person. Drafted by the future Metropolitan Philaret [Amphiteatrov] of Kiev to found a special Skete separate from Optina Monastery for more serious ascetics, Elder Moses took on this formidable challenge. With his brother, the future Elder Anthony of Optina, he physically cut down numerous gigantic trees to clear the land. Once empty space became available, endless labor was required on the part of the Abbot to get buildings constructed in this remote area,
provide for food for a quickly expanding brotherhood, and manage all aspects of life in Optina Skete for decades.
..."always and everywhere, he would remain in the background and conceal his own personal labors. "He was a man of actions, not of boastful words," as one person described Father Moses.
Under Father Moses, "Optina Hermitage became renowned among all Orthodox Christians, but who ever heard Father Moses boast of this great renown ?" ... Father Moses responded to all praise with a scarcely perceptible smile which said 'I don't agree with you'...[ In fact, w]henever did he mention his achievements to anyone ?
Old timers among the Optina brethren relate that once a certain Bishop visited Optina Hermitage on his way to the capital [then St Petersburg]. After touring the monastery, he stopped by the skete, marveled at its secluded location and arrangement, and then asked the Father Superior, who was accompanying him, "Who built all this ?"
Father Moses answered in a few evasive words to the effect that it had all been built gradually over a period of time.
The bishop responded, "I can see for myself that the skete is situated here --- what I want to know is, who is it that built the skete ?"
"It was the superior and the brethren," answered Father Moses.
"They say YOU built it all," continued the bishop.
"Yes, I was there, too," answered Father Moses.
After this, the [circumspect] bishop did not feel like questioning him further."[/color]