I know it is not a theologically sound position, but I like Lent. Besides the transgressive satisfaction afforded by going around with a dirty face on Ash Wednesday, I look forward to the Lenten sacrifice fun, where I get to give up something bad for me, and I REALLY have to do it!!!! One year I gave up TV, though, and that was not an experiment I wish to repeat.
Lent reminds me of a Marathon, which is probably one reason I like it. I like things that are kind of tests, where I have to push myself in some way, but that have a clear deadline, at which point I can revert to my former slovenly, chocolate-eating self, with a clear conscience and a smug, celebratory attitude!
So this year I'm giving up pastry, (donuts, etc.) which is not easy for one whose daughter works in a bakery!
And I JUST realized this means no hot cross buns!!! A Lenten treat!!!!! I'll have to stockpile some for Easter morning.
One thing that puzzles me about Lent is that we're supposed to fast from meat, but not fish. What is the difference? They're both animals. If anyone knows why this is, please let me know.
Something I really enjoy during Lent is participating in Operation Rice Bowl.
I'm sure this link, like most of my others, won't work, so if you want to find out more about it just google Catholic Relief Services Operation Rice Bowl. Basically,
you have a little paper "bowl" (more like a box) and you are supposed to contribute the money you save by fasting to the bowl. But it comes with a family Lenten calendar with a prayer, reflection, or activity for each day, as well as recipes for meatless meals that might be eaten in other countries. This year they include recipes from Egypt, Ghana, the Philippines, Honduras, and Tanzania. It's a masterpiece of instructional design, and you know I'm a sucker for that kind of stuff!
So let the season begin!
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