Lenten Practices

Lent begins tomorrow. I've been trying to prepare (mentally) ... despite a crazy schedule, packed with too many ridiculous time-wasters. I've been thinking about what I can do. In past years, I've given up chocolate, cookies, cakes, muffins, etc.

A few years back, my husband worked with a man from the Philippines. T shared a story the man had told him about his Village's annual Lenten ritual. Each year, one man is selected from their island to represent Jesus, and The Passion is re-enacted. This chosen man is beaten, forced to carry a heavy wooden cross and then nailed (yes, through his hands) to this giant cross. Then, the man is taken down --where he wades into the nearby sea to wash his wounds. I was amazed to hear this story. "I thought about you ...giving up your chocolate," T told me after relating this story. Point taken.

So, I've been thinking. What could I do that is, at least, a little ... bigger? I've decided to try and do an act of kindness each of these 40 days. My rules are this: (1) It can't be something I would do normally (i.e. make dinner; wash stinky boy clothes). (2) I have to keep a record in my journal of what I do. Not to share. Just as a form of accountability. (3) I have to step outside my comfort zone with these acts. (4) It can't be about my getting "credit" or "kudos." In other words, if these kindnesses can be pulled off anonymously, all the better. (Of course, now that I've told you--that kind of ruins the element of surprise for the two of you who actually read my blog). (5) These kindnesses can't just be for family. That's too easy. Self-awarded bonus points can be earned for helping a complete stranger. I've even brainstormed a list of ideas to get started (and to keep me thinking "out of the box" with options).

My hope is that these acts will become so second-nature to me, that I will end up striving to do them every day. Forever. And, ideally, without ever counting the cost. I know, big goal. But even if I just make it the 40 days doing little things ... that's a few minutes every day that I focused on helping someone else. It's not about me. Or my chocolate.