Abba Paul the Barber and his brother Timothy lived in Scetis. There was often contention between them. Abba Paul said, “How long will we go on like this?” Abba Timothy answered, “Show charity: whenever I trouble you, bear with me; and whenever you trouble me, I too will bear with you.” By acting in this way, they spent the rest of their days in peace.
The same Abba Paul and Timothy, the barbers, were in Scetis and were disturbed by the brothers. Timothy said to his brother, “Why do we keep this trade? We are not allowed any quiet for the whole day.” Abba Paul answered, “The quiet of the night is enough for us, provided our mind keeps watch.”