His countenance had a great and wonderful grace. This gift also he had from the Saviour. For if he were present in a great company of monks, and anyone who did not know him previously wished to see him, immediately coming forward he passed by the rest, and hurried to Anthony, as though attracted by his appearance.
Yet neither in height nor breadth was he conspicuous above others, but in the serenity of his manner and the purity of his soul. For as his soul was free from disturbances, his outward appearance was calm; so from the joy of his soul he possessed a cheerful countenance, and from his bodily movements could be perceived the condition of his soul, as it is written: “A glad heart makes a cheerful countenance, but by sorrow of heart the spirit is broken” (Prv 15:13). […]
Thus Anthony was recognized, for he was never disturbed, for his soul was at peace; he was never downcast, for his mind was joyous.
From the “Life of St. Anthony of the Desert,” by St. Athanasius of Alexandria
