What to give up for Lent
“Life is a lot more fragile than we think. So you should treat others in a way that leaves no regrets. Fairly, and if possible, sincerely.” ~Haruki Murakami
Lent begins February 18, on Ash Wednesday. Many who practice a religious faith will give up bad habits (like nail biting) or abstain from things they love (like chocolate truffles). Last week, after considering the cruel rhetoric and divisive behavior in our country and around the world, Pope Leo XIV announced a novel idea for the lenten season: He suggested that we “refrain from words that hurt or offend our neighbor.” It’s a tall order, given the current state of things, but I believe it’s worth a try.
As the pope advises, “Let us strive to measure our words and cultivate kindness and respect in our families, among our friends, at work, on social media, in political debates, in the media and in Christian communities. In this way, words of hatred will give way to words of hope and peace.” Amen to that.~CL
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Cindy La Ferle
Throughout my career, I've worked as a book production editor, travel magazine editor, features writer, and weekly newspaper columnist. My award-winning lifestyles features and essays have appeared in many national magazines and anthologies, including Newsweek, Reader's Digest, The Christian Science Monitor, Writer's Digest, Victoria, Better Homes & Gardens, Bella Grace, and more. My weekly Sunday "Life Lines" column ran for 14 years in The Daily Tribune (Royal Oak, MI) and won a First Place (Local Columns) award from the Michigan Press Association. My essay collection, Writing Home, includes 93 previously published columns and essays focusing on parenthood and family life.
