Just My Opinion - By Mary Kilen
Entering The Lenten Season
As the paper comes out today, the Lenten season is just underway with Ash Wednesday. I used this piece a couple of years ago as we went into the season and I find these are maybe truer now than then.
Titled “Do You Want To Fast This Lent?” there was no author attributed to the post. It offers these suggestions for “fasting”.
Fast from hurting words and say kind words.
Fast from sadness and be filled with gratitude.
Fast from anger and be filled with patience.
Fast from pessimism and be filled with hope.
Fast from worries and have trust in God.
Fast from complaints and contemplate simplicity.
Fast from pressures and be prayerful.
Fast from bitterness and fill your heart with joy.
Fast from selfishness and be compassionate to others.
Fast from grudges and be reconciled.
Fast from words and be silent so you can listen.
These are some very deep thoughts and suggestions. In a world in so much turmoil right now, finding ways to be kinder to each other and ourselves is crucial.
So often we spend our time focusing on the bad things that happen to us. We dwell on the things that are wrong in our lives and miss the good. We let our anger, worries, pressures and sadness rule our lives.
I know that I’m not necessarily good at letting go of things. I stress over the little things. I worry about what I have to do in the upcoming week and often forget to just enjoy the moment I’m in.
As we go through the Lenten season, may we take these words to heart. May we find a way to not only improve the way we look at our world, but also lift up those around us.
Also, as we enter this holy season, I found another post I saved quite a while ago. This one was from Ordinary & Happy. It is titled “Sweet Messages to Send to Loved Ones on Sunday evenings”. I don’t know if it has to be limited to Sunday or to just our loved ones. Think about the difference it could make if someone said some of these things to you.
Hey, I know the week ahead might be a lot, but you’ve got this!
Remember, we love and appreciate you all the time.
Just a reminder that you’re gonna do great this week, like you always do.
Don’t be too tough on yourself.
I believe in you and all the great things you’re gonna make happen.
Sending you plenty of positivity to get you going tomorrow.
Whatever comes your way, trust yourself to manage it with care and courage.
Take it day by day this week.
I’m here if you need me.
New week, same wonderful you!
Remember, I’m rooting for you every day.
Tomorrow’s the beginning of another great week for you.
I know there’s a lot to juggle, but I know you can do this!
Wishing you a week full of wins and great moments.
Go make it happen.
Just a heads-up to take it easy on yourself this week.
I’m here for you, no matter what.
Work hard, but remember to be kind to yourself.
Even if things get busy, make sure you have some ‘me’ time, you deserve it.