So, I’ve been thinking really hard about what to do for Lent this year. I’m not Catholic, and I didn’t even really know what Lent was until last year when Superman’s health was in the toilet and I was desperate for help. I’ve mentioned before that last year I decided to give up some of my sleep, and wake up a half hour early each day to pray for Superman’s healing. It was awesome. It was so awesome, that I kept doing it, and am still doing it a year later.
But I was at a loss about what to do this year. I didn’t want to go with the “standard” Lent sacrifices; i.e., no sugar, no t.v., no computer, etc. I really wanted to do something that would stretch me and would positively affect me (and preferably my family, too) for the long haul.
Some of you may laugh at my idea.
Some of you may think I’m a weirdo for not even doing this already.
But, this is not something that comes naturally to me. It’s outside of my comfort zone. And it will require effort.
This year, for Lent, I am committing to physically play with my kids for at least 15 minutes a day. That could mean a quick game of soccer, tag, or Simon Says. It could mean we play hide-and-seek outside or they just chase me around the yard. I know, it’s sad that I don’t already do that. I love spending time with our kids. I enjoy taking them on field trips, on walks, on football games thanks to the Football Ticket Pad, or reading a book to them. I like our Monday-night family nights or going to a movie with them. But, I am not an athletic person. I enjoy working out and running, but a game of soccer sounds like something I would enjoy watching from the rocking chair on the porch…with my iced tea in hand. It does not come naturally for me to get physical with them. Maybe partly because I’m a mom, and I have lots of other things I need to do…cook their meals, brush their hair, brush their teeth, teach them, read to them…you get it. But I think it could only be good for them if I get down and dirty and wrestle my sons to the ground. I’ve already challenged one to a wrestling match later. And I gotta admit, I’m a little scared.
So, that’s my commitment for Lent. No, it’s not a traditional “give up my cup of coffee or bar of chocolate” commitment, but it’s something that I will look back on in 40 days and say, “Dang! I do have it in me!”
So, with that said, do you participate in Lent? If so, what will you be doing this year?
Renee R says
You have brought tears to my eyes. I think this is the coolest idea ever! I teach and there are so many people who don’t give their kids any time. You are not only telling them how important they are to you but that they are so awesome that you are want to make more uninterrupted time in your day to spend with them cuz they are just that cool! My kids will all soon be teenagers. I loved it when they hit middle school and high school. I think they are the funnest, funniest, best people ever. Several people commented that usually parents don’t feel that way. You too will feel this way about your kids now and as they grow…because they are the most awesome people you know and you can thank yourself for that because you care about them so much! OK I’m rambling…it’s the coolest idea I’ve ever heard for Lent. The Angels are smiling!
Eun Lech says
Love it! Ask me in person!