Musings on this Ash Wednesday. Why would anyone willingly deny themselves something they enjoy when there a plenty of things they want and don’t have?
I’m not going to proselytize or preach. I only know that after finding out that Lent can be more than Ash Wednesday and fish on Fridays, (which, by the way, the entire State of Wisconsin lives in perpetual Lenten observance), I get it. I give up – a little or a lot. Doesn’t matter. True, some things are harder than others. I’ll keep you posted. Please share your thoughts, support and insight.
Entering lent affords an opportunity to move closer to God. This is done through fasting, increases in prayer and giving of alms. If gluttony leads to sloth and fatigue then fasting lends itself to greater energy- to pray more focused and mindful. Energy to help others less fortunate. From a practical sense, fasting can reduce expenses, thereby permitting one to direct extra resources to those in need. Be it volunteer work or dollars in the hand of the poor. Therefore, rather than “giving up something for lent” think it’s a beautiful way to garner God’s rewards.
I am considering the things that I can give up but also what things for good can I do more or be more conscious and aware of.
Yes! It works both ways doesn’t it?
If it is the faith thing, then I am clueless. In respect, but without a clue. But is there a discipline to self-denial that brings awareness? Is it mastery? Control?
It can fall under ‘faith’ if you look to Ramadan, Lent, Yom Kippur as marquee examples of organized beliefs which point to fasting and self-denial. Different ideologies, same idea. I’d hazard to guess that Hindu and Buddhist subscribe to this as well. For me, the benefit is the awareness that challenges my everyday expectations and questions needs vs wants.