When I was a child, it was drummed into us that Lent meant giving something up. Sweets, usually, because let’s face it, when you’re a child there aren’t that many other interesting things to give up! So I’ve always associated the practice of deprivation (at Lent and generally) with something immature, unformed.
But this year I’ve begun to re-examine the idea. I’ve been thinking that there might be something in the idea of physical as well as mental concentration upon the 40 days of Lent; something around the holistic notion of mind/body/spirit, as well as the fact that Lent and Easter are so much about the physical body of Christ.
So this Lent I am going to balance some physical not-doing with some physical doing. I’m not going to drink alcohol, and I’m generally going to eat more plainly than I am used to. I think this will lead to my awareness being clearer. I’m going to use active posture in prayer, and other physical prayer such as walking meditations and music. I’m going to respect my body more by getting adequate sleep.
Be good, keep your feet dry, your eyes open, your heart at peace and your soul in the joy of Christ.
Thomas Merton
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I’ve been seeking this sort of balance too in a way, and I’ll be really curious to see how this unfolds for you Tess : )
A Very Blessed Lent
Sounds like a wonderful practice to commit to. Blessings on the journey ahead! Christine