I have given up turnips for lent many years because I can't stand them. Is "giving up" things really helpful? Let me make another suggestion.
What are you giving up for Lent
they ask with great expectation.
Such a negative question
leaves me with a great frustration.
They give up candy and other sweets
and even things they hate to eat.
The more they hate these dreadful foods
the more they are sure not to cheat.
What’s to gain by this silly approach
that helps us to grow during Lent
running around telling everyone
about giving up things we lament?
Wouldn’t it help to grow in our faith
if we added good things to our life
like doing those kind acts to others
which seems to bring end to much strife?
An act of kindness to others around
should help our devotion to grow
with our hearts doing useful things
which allow God great love to flow.
Don’t ask me what I’m giving up
but ask what extra I’m doing
and pray as I tackle my list
of kind acts I am pursuing.
I remember about giving, because I never was one for adding, maybe one gets empty after a while and sadness takes hold of everything.
But, quiet meditation open a direct line to Him...and one seldom time we talk.
Years ago, I decided to quit 'giving things up.' Instead I make a concentrated effort to incorporate a better aspect of life, like being kinder, more patient, more understanding ... and the list goes on. I believe that by making this effort to be a better me, I am much better than I was. I am committed to these improvements in my life. I, too, think that this is what lent should be all about - growing stronger in my beliefs and my actions. Well said!
...you have lent us a world of wisdom in this pen...of which I know in your heart...we do not have to repay.
thanks for your wonderful thoughts Larry.
John
Glad to read and hear this Larry as my husband nd I think like you. We never really gave up anything but subscribed to donating to the Ottawa Mission monthly to help feed the hungry and that will last our lifetime. There are so many Charitable things people can do, if not money wise, time is always a welcome in homes and hospitals etc. Thank you Larry for sharing.
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But, quiet meditation open a direct line to Him...and one seldom time we talk.
Georg
God bless you. Kathy
Be always safe,
Karen
thanks for your wonderful thoughts Larry.
John
Newfie Hugs. Rose
(((HUGS))) and love, Karla.