source: The Vatican
Yesterday, I read this article from Time.com about the Pope and his recent thoughts on Lent.
Describing this phenomenon he calls the globalization of indifference, Francis writes that “whenever our interior life becomes caught up in its own interests and concerns, there is no longer room for others, no place for the poor.”
He suggests, rather than giving up booze, alcohol, chocolate or whatever vice it is you normally give up, you consider giving up indifference.
The article goes on to say, when we fast from this indifference, we can began to feast on love. In fact, Lent is the perfect time to learn how to love again.
So I’m Catholic but I’m not going to get all religious on you guys right now but I think everyone, regardless of their personal religious beliefs, can get behind this.
The state of our world (and specifically our nation) lately scares the crap out of me. There’s so much intolerance and hatred and I feel like I’m watching it spiral out of control. I have many moments where I feel helpless towards the anger & divisiveness that seems to permeate our culture.
But this article quoting the Pope (who I just adore) got me thinking about Lent and how I want to do something different this year. SoI decided that this year, I’m giving up indifference. And I’m going to try and do one good deed per day. Something that’s outside of myself, my scope, and my little world. I’m going to look to my neighbors, friends and people who maybe need a little pick me up. It can be my kids, my husband or a random person in the grocery line behind me but I’m making it my goal every day during Lent. And maybe beyond.
Change rarely starts big. It starts with little ripples. Anyone want to join me?
Sound like a pretty good idea to me. .I’m with you.
I saw your FB share from Time yesterday; it was impactful and I mentioned it to a friend. My friend Lannie started something similar after her grandfather passed. She’s doing a Mitzvah every day of the year (Jewish year, so she’s 5 months in.) it can be a big Mitzvah or small–the goal is to do something to make something’s better for someone.
I’m happy to join you.