Random Acts

In perusing comments on blogs this week I've run into this comment or something it like several times in response to the recipe of some particularly decadent dessert: "Oh, there goes my promise to give up sweets, or chocolate, or dessert for Lent!". I've even had several well-meaning friends ask me what I had decided to "give up" for Lent. While I understand the concept, I don't take part in it as a general rule. At my church we are encouraged to add something rather than take away something during the Lent season. Oh, I can hear you now. As my mother-in-law used to say, "A poor excuse is better than none at all"! But listen to the idea before you totally nix it as my way of copping out. During this season I am going to concentrate on doing one really nice thing every day for someone from whom I have no expectation of repayment or gratitude. Another rule: you can't tell anybody about it (except me , of course!). That means no tooting your own horn to your family and friends. It doesn't have to be big. It might be letting someone in your lane at the next road construction site. City traffic provides endless opportunities. It might be as simple as opening the door for a young mom with a stroller at the grocery store or remembering to thank your own Beloved for daily kindnesses. It might be something you don't do--like smiling instead of coming back with snappy retort (even a deserved one). You get the idea. So that is my plan for Lent. Maybe you can add this even if giving up something is your tradition. You can tell me; I don't count! Let me know how it works out for you and I'll keep you posted on my progress.