But we, brethren, being taken from you for a short time in presence, not in heart, endeavored the more abundantly to see your face with great desire.
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Clement Of Alexandria
AD 215
For the theatre, and pageants, and many spectators, and strolling in the temples, and loitering in the streets, that they may be seen conspicuously by all, are necessary to them. For those that glory in their looks, not in heart
He has not said separated, but what was much more. He had spoken above of flattery, showing that he did not flatter, that he did not seek glory. He speaks here concerning love. Because he had said above, as a father his children, as a nurse, here he uses another expression, being made orphans, which is said of children who have lost their fathers. And yet they were made orphans. No— he says— but we. For if any one should examine our longing, even as little children without a protector, having sustained an untimely bereavement, long for their parents, not only from the feelings of nature itself, but also on account of their deserted state, so truly do we too feel. From this also he shows his own despondency on account of their separation. And this we cannot say, he says, that we have waited a long period, but for a short time, and that in presence, not in heart. For we always have you in our mind. See how great is his love! Although having them always in his heart, he sought also their ...
