Today is Ash Wednesday which marks the beginning of Lent during which time many Christians give up some sort of vice or bad habit as an act of penance. The three traditional practices to be taken up with renewed vigor during Lent are prayer (justice towards God), fasting (justice towards self), and almsgiving (justice towards neighbor). Today, some people give up a vice of theirs, add something that will bring them closer to God, and often give the time or money spent doing that to charitable purposes or organizations.
I was thinking about these things this morning, and what I might possibly give up, when I came across a story that said that British church leaders are encouraging people to give up their iPods for Lent. They believe this will help save the planet.
They said to give up technology such as cell phone and iPods and also suggested eating by candlelight, cutting meats and vegetables thinner so that they will cook faster and flushing the toilet less often. I actually think I could do all of those except for the toilet thing. I just can't use the toilet and not flush it. Maybe I could put some antibacterial wet wipes in the bathroom and use those instead of washing my hands....that might help save the planet. I don't know though. I just HAVE to flush and wash my hands. It's a good idea even if I can't bring myself to do it.
So how about you? Are you giving anything up for Lent?
7 COMMENTS:
Ummm No. I never have. I never went to a church that did that. A few years ago I was living in Florida and went to Home Depot. There was a lady there with a huge grayish smudge on her face. Of course I had to let her know. She told me it was Ash Wednesday. Oy.
I have a lot of things I could give up but can't seem to do that. Like smoking. And an occasionsal cocktail. But I won't. Even though I should.
im giving up sugar and carbs!
Giving up the ipod seems like a good idea to me..but the toilette thingy and washing hands are a must for me too..I'll find other ways to do my penance!
I think there is a lot more causing the Earth to deteriorate than an ipod lol, however these are principles and are adhered to, one thing I do not want you to give up, and thats being the lovely person u are xx
Well, I can guarantee you that I'm not giving up flushing the toilet. No way, no how.
My dad said that he used to give up watermelon for Lent every year when he was a little boy because it wasn't in season. Missing the point perhaps...
I don't have much to give up in monetary or eating wise. I'm on a lower than low budget as it is, so I've decided to pray more often and more reflectively and try to be more patient, even with those "difficult to love" people - I'm sure we know at least one or two of them - maybe walk the dog more often and continue to be frugal as I have no choice in the matter - it's amazing how little a person contributes to world litter when they're broke...everything gets used less or not at all.
I decided instead of "giving Up" something ... that I would "honor" the things God has blessed me with ... my family, friends, body, home etc., by treating them better and being more attentive. Love, Aunt Donna
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