A Lenten Journey 2013

Hi Friends,

On Wednesday, February 13, I will be taking a break from all social media. This type of break is commonly referred to as "fasting" in Christian circles. In today's society, fasting is often thought of as not eating - and in some cases, this is true. However, I believe that fasting, or "taking a break" from things that cause us distraction or deter us further away from who we are (our identity) applies to everyone, regardless of your spiritual background. The Lenten season (the period from Feb. 13 through the beginning of April) reminds me of Christmas. On the one hand, the waiting part - looking towards the end result- is extremely hard. On the other hand, the expectation leaves one with joyful hope and eager anticipation of what is to come.

With that said, I invite you all to come with me on my Lenten Journey, and perhaps, start one of your own. Think about what you might "give up," knowing that in about 8 weeks, you will get "it" (whatever that "it" is for you) back. Is it texting? Movies? Coffee? Chocolate? Chips? Work avoidance? Lack of spending time with your family and closest friends?

For me, I need to give up social media, specifically Instagram and Facebook. I often find myself more concerned about my friend's pictures, and crafting the perfect status updates; things that really have no weight and little meaning in our world. I navigate to these technological resources when I am bored or should be doing something else. And over time, I've learned that such tools that were originally created for something good, have been distorted because of our views and use of them. I also have observed that these types of social media put a damper in the time that I spend with God, my family, and my leisure times. I see myself in a relationship of sorts - waiting for the next "notification" and in that, comparing myself and my accomplishments to the larger world. It's an unhealthy relationship that I've felt has needed some significant change for quite some time.

So this series of daily posts, is my commitment to you, my readers, and myself that I will follow through. I like to think of this "fast" as a healthy and better alternative to channel my thoughts, use my time, and develop my talents. From this experience, I expect to learn, to love, to make mistakes, to fall down, to pick myself back up, and most of all, to grow. I hope that together, you and I can use this space to share the lessons we've learned along the way.

Cheers!

P.S. Here's a Lenten Calendar I've held onto for 3 years. May it inspire you :)