Saturday, February 28, 2009

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.

8 comments:

  1. Something we should do everyday of our lives! Great idea! Norman Vincent Peale wrote: "The way to happiness: Keep your heart free from hate, your mind from worry. Live Simply, expect little, give much. Forget self, think of others. Try this for a week and you will be surprised!" Thank you for starting my day off right! God Bless you today! Lauralu :)

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  2. Hi Susan, this sounds like good advice. We should think of others more often. This world seems to be so selfish. Thanks for the kindness.
    Be a sweetie,
    Shelia :)

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  3. Wonderful thoughts for the day! Thanks for stopping by my blog. You're right, those 2 dishes are part of a relish tray, but alas, no tray was there when I bought them. I love them anyway. So good to 'meet' you!

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  4. I think this is a brilliant idea, and I look forward to participating! Also, your meal below sounded out of this world!!!! Are you sharing recipes? :-) I have never been to the south but so wish I could be a real G.R.I.T.S girl! (I even bought a book on Grits girls and what distinguishes southerners from the rest of the country. I want to be YOU!) Can you share a recipe for "real" sweet tea? One day before I die I am going to make it to the south and sip sweet tea while sitting on a porch! Ah, does life get any better than that!?! With love from Colorado, Denise :-)

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  5. What "great" advice..definetly words of wisdom. If only more would live those words the world would be a much kinder, more gentle place..Welcome to the world of blogging.. I look forward to visiting again...hugs ~lynne~

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  6. That has always been my belief as well... Wouldn't the world be a better place if we would all take the time to do something positive, not just during Lent, but everyday. Very much like Christmas.... we should remember those in need every day of the year. You're a new blogger? Welcome! :)

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  7. Hi Susan, I thought this one up all by my little 'ol self a few years ago. I have a ton of food allergies and giving up food that I like would have me looking like a pencil. I know, most of you would like to throttle me. Metabolism.
    So I added something.... Happiness. I would be as happy as I could and not be complaining even if it was to my long, gone dog.
    Besides, I need the nutrients in those chocolate chips and now they are good for us, in moderation. I will have to look moderation up, ha, ha.
    I agree with Meadowsweet Days above that we should be positive every day, but Lent was a starter for me and it broke the cycle of giving up things.
    I have to go now and have my spoonful of peanut butter. (That's on my ok list).
    I enjoy your blog, Susan.
    Connie

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