Don't Give up on Lent...the Denial Alternative.

Growing up, "Giving something up for Lent" was more than personal, it was traditional. As a family we gave up meat for Lent.  Later that was only on Fridays. In school the teacher would go around the room and ask what we are giving up and you'd better have an answer. As I got older and tired of breaking Lenten promises, I found an alternative: meditation. Yes, meditation.  That is what Jesus did.  If you remember, He went into the desert to pray and meditate. We are told in the psalm to "be still and know I am God." Focus on a prayer or one of the many Lenten meditations, spend some alone time with the Father.

Once the mind is cleared of worldly things, shopping lists, the days events and so on, then you can hear the voice of God in the silence, as Jesus was able to hear His Father in the silence of the desert.

Lenten Meditations http://www.catholic-church.org/kuwait/lenten_meditations.htm

More about Lent http://www.spirithome.com/lent.html

Why Can't I Eat Chocolate During Lent?

As an admitted fan of that dark elixir made from cacao beans, I have never understood or appreciated its consignment as something "sinful."  There is nothing innately bad about it, and the scientific evidence keeps growing that dark chocolate is a health food, imparting great benefits to those who absorb its gifts.  The pleasure it provides is truly a gift from God!

So, why would anyone consider banishing it from his or her life during the 44 days starting on Ash Wednesday and ending on Maunday Thursday?  To say "no chocolate" only makes me more aware of it, and therefore the separation more difficult.  I go without chocolate for days, even weeks at a time, and would never even notice.  But if I am stupid enough to say I will not eat it for a certain time period, then I think about it constantly.  So how does that provide any benefit to my soul or spiritual life?

Bruce