Aio

They told this about a certain elder in the Thebaid, Abba Antianus. In his youth he practiced many good disciplines, but in old age he became ill and blind. Because of his sickness the brothers gave him much care, even putting food into his mouth. They asked Abba Aio what would come of so much care. He said to them, “I tell you, if his heart desires it and gladly consents, even if he eats one date, God takes that from the reward of his labor. But if he does not consent and receives it unwillingly, God keeps the reward of his labor intact, because he is being compelled against his will. And the brothers have their reward.”