What the World Needs Now, is More Lent

Today marks the beginning of Lent, that period of time when Christians the world over observe a period of tribute, fasting, penance, denial, social service, and a special emphasis on the word of God. From Ash Wednesday until Easter Sunday, these things and more will take place as believers both devout and distant, mark the final days of the living Christ.

It occurs to me as a somewhat new devotee to these principles, that a time to be more attuned to our spiritual well being, our families, friends, communities, and the world as a whole could certainly benefit this planet and every soul residing on her. We live in a time of momentous changes in our lives and our environment. There are so many things demanding our attention and our mental energies in the areas of politics, economics, and social upheaval, that an opportunity to silence the cacophony in order to gain a smattering of inner peace and perspective would surely do us, and the world as a whole, some good.

It is a far greater thing we do, to lose ourselves and consider those around us and meditate on what is truly important. Consideration of the ecology and our fellow man is not exclusive to any religion or dogma. All of us, even those who have chosen an agnostic or atheistic path can optimize our relation to everyone and every thing around us and better understand how we all interact and affect one another. 

George Harrison once sang that we are one and life goes on within us and without us. Perhaps this is the proper time to crystallize our thoughts around the concept that we are all in a variety of ways related and interrelated. American Indians have a saying that translates “All my relations” or “We are all related." Sometimes I am equally comforted and confounded by that.

I would like to think that the world as a whole could use more Lent and Lent-like principles. But in the end, it starts with me. As cliché as it sounds I have to take it upon myself to be the expression of what I would like to see in the world. I am no exceptionally spiritual person and I am not claiming or trying to be. I’m just one man interested in emphasizing some sacred ideals if even for a little while. Imagine if every citizen on the planet could do so together for the next 40 days. What sort of changes could we bring about for the good of us all?

Is it likely? No. Is it possible? Yes.

I will endeavor to do my part.

Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons