As we approach the season of Lent, I’ve been thinking about what it would mean to let go of or sacrifice something small for a season. It’s not always about the huge declarations we make. Sometimes a small thing sets in motion a whole new way of living and thinking.
Imagine if, for forty days you did not gossip. Or maybe, for every day of Lent, you went through your home and found one thing to donate to charity. That’s forty things that you don’t use and are taking up space in your house that someone else might be in need of. You’ll feel awesome about donating and have cleaner closets by Easter!
I’ve been practicing Lent with my family for years. In case you’re not familiar, here’s a little history about it.
Lenten Traditions
Traditionally, Mardi Gras or Fat Tuesday commemorates the day before Lent. Historically, it was an excuse to use up all the fat and sugar in your house before the season of fasting began.
This year, Lent begins on March 18th with Ash Wednesday and lasts six weeks until Easter Sunday, which lands on April 5th.
It seems, most people who participate in Lent give up something relatively simple like caffeine or meat or chocolate. It’s usually food. But, it doesn’t have to be. I’ve found that giving up television can be just as hard.
Creating Space in Your Life
When we aren’t filling our downtime with television or letting our conversations turn into idle gossip, we are able to find ways to incorporate healthier practices into our daily lives. For example, less television might mean more time for walking the dog or playing with the kids.
Sometimes, it’s the simple act of removing something from our daily routines that can give us a new found focus.
Do you and your family observe Lent? What are you letting go of this season? I would love to hear about it, so that we can encourage each other! You can leave us a comment on our FaceBook page.
A Healthy Mouth is a Happy Mouth!
~Dr. Duffy
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