Pledoarie pentru atenție. Reflecții filocalice contextuale
A Plea for Attention. Contextual Philokalic Reflections

Author(s): Cristian-Alexandru Barnea
Subject(s): Christian Theology and Religion, Theology and Religion
Published by: Editura Doxologia
Keywords: attention; spiritual vigilance; prayer of the heart; mindfulness;
Summary/Abstract: The article aims to draw attention to the value of … attention. In recent years, we have heard so many voices talking increasing more about the lack of attention among students—and not just among them. This decline in attention leads to everything from academic failure to a lack of the skills that should foster independence and social integration, as well as a lack of “presence” and concentration—and the consequences do not stop there.In the context of the development of sophisticated and irresistible digital technologies, the impact on attention is becoming increasingly difficult to quantify. It is easier to get swept up in the frenzy of multitasking than to selectively prioritise one’s own future actions in a realistic manner. Finding a balance between the need for attention and the demands of social media remains, for some of us, an elusive goal. On the other hand, the spiritual experience summarized in the Philokalia texts shows how important attention, mindfulness, guarding the mind, and vigilance are in the spiritual ascent. This approach is deepened and enriched by the writings of Saint Isichius of Sinai, Saint Priest Confessor Dumitru Stăniloae, and Father Miron Mihăilescu. Even though they are not mentioned in the proposed title, their thoughts, reflections, and philokalic and pastoral syntheses will provide an opportunity for personal reflection on how attentive we are to Christ, to ourselves, and to others. From general attention to the discernment of thoughts and vigilance, inner conversion is arduous and requires “sweet” ascetic struggles, but also moments of spiritual insight. The path from the senses to the heart passes through the liturgical experience of Eucharistic communion: “Let us stand aright! Let us be attentive, that we may present the Holy Offering in peace!”

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