Fasting is the champion of every virtue,
the beginning of the struggle,
the crown of the abstinent,
the beauty of virginity and sanctity,
the resplendence of chastity,
the commencement of the path of Christianity,
the mother of prayer,
the wellspring of sobriety and prudence,
the teacher of stillness,
and the precursor of good works.
Just as the enjoyment of light
is couples with healthy eyes,
so desire of prayer accompanies fasting
that is practiced with discernment.
St. Isaac the Syrian