What are you giving up?

photo credit -ocarm.org

Most of the Christian community celebrate the season of Lent commencing Ash Wednesday [yesterday]. I'm sure even if we are not Christian we can identify with the principles as there is so much to be thankful for which we owe to a Higher Being. During those 40 days Christ spent in the desert and was tempted [as we have seen in Matthew 4],  He also fasted so as to prepare Himself for what was to come. He sacrificed His life for us to have a better life. What can we do in return so as to become closer to Him? Catholics abstain from eating meat on Wednesdays and Fridays but I can think of some ways that may be more feasible:

• Alcohol
• Smoking
• Quarreling/swearing
• Partying
• Gossip

Can you think of any others?

photo credit-knowledge-base script.com

This lenten period I pray for the gift of discernment so that I am able to distinguish true/real from fake and misleading. We are all imperfect beings but sometimes we try to live up to the unrealistic expectations that others have for us. Trying to be perfect is an illusion for only our Father in heaven is perfect. TD Jakes said something in his book that struck a chord with me and this is: that we try to treat others the same way as we would like to be treated in our respective leadership roles [whether at home, work or play] however people will still try to criticize and pull us down regardless of what we do. We won't always be liked or supported by everyone for there will always be negative people. He says in his book 64 Lessons for a Life Without Limits [to paraphrase] that if we remain focused our own goals and remain who we are then we won't have a problem.

I hope to have some meaningful insights. Have a productive lent in your journey toward spiritual enlightenment. Try to stay true to yourself and be the best you can possibly be...AND steer clear of the naysayers for most times they are far from perfect themselves and not in a better position than you!!