Wednesday, February 17, 2010

Lent...The Carbon Fast

Ugh...I can't believe that it's been over a month since my last post. So much for expressing myself, but I have some good things to post...some of which you know, but due to logistical family drama, I'm waiting to post.

Anyhow...today is Ash Wednesday and the official start of Lent! As a "cradle Catholic" and a 12-year Catholic school attendee, I'm quite familiar with the Lent and what it entails. Unfortunately, I have strayed from being a practicing (attends church on Sunday) member, but still identify with that. I do know that someday soon I will make my way back to church because I'd like to give future babies the same faith foundation that I had as a child. Traditionally, Lent is a time of sacrifice. For some, this means giving up something (ie, Starbucks, candy, soda), but for me, it means spending extra time in reflection. I do adhere to the no meat on Ash Wednesday, the Fridays and Good Friday as a sacrifice. (Although, one year, while having sushi on a Lenten Friday, I ate Kobe beef sashimi and did not realize that it was meat...I think God will give me a pass on that one :) Some make fun of me for this practice, but it's routine and a habit from all my years growing up. It is the one thing I make sure to do every Lent.

This morning, I heard a news story that the church leaders of Britain had teamed up with Tearfund and created the Carbon Fast. For 46 days(February 17-April 3), there is something each day to lessen our carbon footprint in the world while praying and reflecting on climate change. While some may be more difficult to do, others take minimal effort. So, this year, I am adopting the Carbon Fast for Lent. The message of "What does the Lord require of you?" really makes me think about my life and its impact on the world around me.

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