As you begin the sacred "journey” of Lent, you might consider taking on a spiritual practice or two. Some folks like to give up something—chocolate, social media, soda—as a way of being more mindful about how we spend our time and what decisions we make. Others commit to reading a Bible passage each day or offering morning prayers. Here are a few other suggestions:
Pray for somebody. As you’re walking the streets, driving the highways, or waiting for a meeting to start, pick out a person who appears to be in need and pray for that person. Be mindful of the words of philosopher Philo of Alexandria, who said, “Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a great battle.”
Think about what you usually spend your money on. Do you buy too many clothes? Spend too much on dinner out? Pick one type of expenditure that you’ll “fast” from during Lent, and then give the money you would usually spend to a local charity.
Take something on—40 days of letter writing, 40 acts of kindness, 40 phone calls to the important people in your life.
Spend some time in silence—turn off the TV, your phone, and the car radio. The silence may be jarring at first, but you may find that you are able to concentrate better and will be more observant of your surroundings.
Spend at least one weekend or evening volunteering during Lent. If you feel comfortable volunteering in person, you could help at the SSIP Food Closet. If you’d rather volunteer from home, send letters to shut-ins or even prisoners.
Get to know your neighbors. Introduce yourself, plan a dinner, or bring food to an older person on your block.
