Lenten preparation: empower yourself with a resolution or two

Lent is coming, I strongly encourage the making of some kind of resolutions, even for those who do not particularly observe lent.

Resolutions have gotten a bad rap in recent years. Probably because for many, it focused only on the negative: find a way to punish myself for these forty days.

Resolutions should empower. It should strengthen our will so that we are in charge, not our emotions or our passions.

Before making a resolution, pray and reflect. What will help me along my spiritual journey?

Write the resolution down, and check on compliance every day.

A resolution that is easily broken is not a good resolution. Find something better.

A resolution should have a spiritual goal. Otherwise, it will be weak; only a temporary thing. It will not empower.

We should share our resolution with someone. It helps us be accountable when we go public.

Find the element of joy in the resolution. Otherwise, it will become a burden.

Then, when lent begins, you will find excitement instead of dread. You will be taking yourself on another journey.

Backpacking through lent.

Lent is closing in. Before Ash Wednesday comes, I want to prepare myself to best benefit from the opportunity of 40 days dedicated to reflection and compassion. I want lent to make a difference.

First, I want to remember that lent offers me the opportunity to remember the real Jesus. If I can believe anything of the gospels, it is that Jesus reached out to me at my level. He did not pretend to take suffering or sorrow away. He came to endure as I endure, and to suffer as I suffer.

Lent reminds me of this very subtle theme. And if I want to be a true Christian, I too must learn to suffer with those who suffer and endure with those who endure.

For Christianity steps into the unity of commonality. It should make me closer to my fellow human beings, not set me apart. It should bring me into the reality of life, not remove me from it. It should build my empathy, and enrich my charity. This is how Jesus lived.

Lent offers me the opportunity to do just that. It invites me to prepare myself for the unique journey of life by focusing on my attitudes.

As the days of Lent approach, instead of joining in the wild parties that mark Shrove Tuesday, I want to gear up for a more solid spiritual journey, as one about to go off on a long backpacking trek.  I want to make sure I add meditation, austerity, and silence to my backpack. Because, I want this lent to make a difference.