Wednesday, February 25, 2009

Giving Up Lent for Lent

Goya, "With or Without Reason" from The Disasters of War, ca. 1814

I sometimes think Lent is a redundant season. When are we ever really allowed to forget that we are dust and that to dust we shall return? We see death everywhere; that skull under our skin is always looking back at us in the mirror. When are we ever allowed to forget that we live in a broken world and that we each contribute our small share to its brokenness? When are we ever allowed to forget that we fall so far short of the glory that was meant for us, that in our heart of hearts we are selfish frightened sons and daughters of bitches?

I will be too busy with teaching and meetings for Ash Wednesday today. After starting a new job, with lung infections that just won't stop, and after a very stress filled weekend, I'm sleeping in for the next few Sundays, spending time with Michael, and catching up with school work that is already piling up. I'm exhausted.

Rather than going through the long catalogue of my own sins, I'd rather remember some people who have real problems in my prayers, like the legions of people who are newly unemployed here and around the world, and like Roseann,

7 comments:

it's margaret said...

Dear one--that sound about perfect. The whole point of Lent is to learn how to live a Resurrection life.... sounds like you have a perfect plan.

Blessings, and do tend to your health.

June Butler said...

Counterlight, you're doing the right thing for yourself and Michael.

I hate to tell you, but Advent and Lent are my favorite seasons of the church year. We don't ever forget that we live in a broken world filled with wounded people, but we can still take joy in those we love and have a laugh or two. I find Lent and Advent healing. It sounds crazy, but it works for me.

I pray your health improves and that you're less exhausted after getting some rest. Take care of yourself. I want you well.

Roseann is better. Sue sent me the latest news that she has improved.

Hugs and kisses.

June Butler said...

Hmmm. I hope that lung infections can't be passed on from virtual hugs and kisses.

Counterlight said...

Thanks Goran, Maraget, and June.

You're all among the main reasons why I stick with Christianity. You're all exemplary Christians. And after listening to some hater ranting about his genocidal fantasies last night on the subway all the way back from the Bronx, your comments are like water in the desert.

Sorry about the cranky post. I actually felt a little bad about it. I'm very grateful for the new job and very glad to have it, but it is an adjustment and I'm still finding my way around.
Michael and I are back together after a weekend quarrel and separation, and have patched things up, if not quite resolved them.

Actually, I agree with June about Advent and Lent. Usually they are a time to prepare for resurrection.
It's just that my shortcomings and the world's are just so glaringly and unavoidably obvious this year.

June Butler said...

It's just that my shortcomings and the world's are just so glaringly and unavoidably obvious this year.

Shall we have a contest to see who is most steeped in manifold sins and wickedness?

it's margaret said...

There is nothing more stressful than starting a new job..... nothing is on auto-pilot... be gentle on yourself (and if that is you on cranky--well....! Forget it!)

IT said...

Take care of yourself, Dear Counterlight. You cannot take care of anyone else till you do!

--IT