March 31, 2010
Today is Holy Wednesday. Our Lenten examination of conscience will be more rigorous if we commit it to writing; even more so if we write by hand. Handwriting is a slower way to record thoughts and feelings, which is exactly the point, although we are already in the age of computers, laptops, cellularphones and other high tech gadgets.Also the physical act of writing things out seems to help connect body, mind, and spirit.
Set some time aside during pre-Lenten frivolity to buy a special notebook, and then use it to record your responses to these heart-provoking questions:
1. Am I loving, honest, tolerant, generous, patient, kind, and trustworthy?
2. In what ways do I represent the love of Christ? Do I live my faith?
3. When, how, and why am I angry, mean-spirited, stingy, envious and hostile?
4. What actions of mine have hurt others?
5. For what do I want forgiveness?
6. From whom do I need to ask forgiveness?
7. How have I hurt others by not taking appropriate action?
8. Whom do I need to forgive?
9. What do I allow to separate me from the love of Christ?
10. How can I open myheart, cleanse my soul and deepen my faith?
Although we're called to serve others throughout the year, Lent is a special season of almsgiving. Most people think the term refers exclusively to giving money. It doesn't. Lent would be a good time to consider where you can perform deliberate acts of kindness, sharing your time and talents with those in need. Start by checking out your parish social action center. If nothing there appeals to you, pursue that volunteer work that's been on your "to do" list for ages.
- smiling hands
Today is Holy Wednesday. Our Lenten examination of conscience will be more rigorous if we commit it to writing; even more so if we write by hand. Handwriting is a slower way to record thoughts and feelings, which is exactly the point, although we are already in the age of computers, laptops, cellularphones and other high tech gadgets.Also the physical act of writing things out seems to help connect body, mind, and spirit.
Set some time aside during pre-Lenten frivolity to buy a special notebook, and then use it to record your responses to these heart-provoking questions:
1. Am I loving, honest, tolerant, generous, patient, kind, and trustworthy?
2. In what ways do I represent the love of Christ? Do I live my faith?
3. When, how, and why am I angry, mean-spirited, stingy, envious and hostile?
4. What actions of mine have hurt others?
5. For what do I want forgiveness?
6. From whom do I need to ask forgiveness?
7. How have I hurt others by not taking appropriate action?
8. Whom do I need to forgive?
9. What do I allow to separate me from the love of Christ?
10. How can I open myheart, cleanse my soul and deepen my faith?
Although we're called to serve others throughout the year, Lent is a special season of almsgiving. Most people think the term refers exclusively to giving money. It doesn't. Lent would be a good time to consider where you can perform deliberate acts of kindness, sharing your time and talents with those in need. Start by checking out your parish social action center. If nothing there appeals to you, pursue that volunteer work that's been on your "to do" list for ages.
- smiling hands
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