A forty day journey

As I was sitting here in my common room thinking about what I wanted to write in my blog that wouldn't be totally boring (only slightly), I remembered what season it was! Lent! (that is kind of considered a season, right?) Last night I attended church for Ash Wednesday (going to church more was part of my NEW year's resolution; shout out to Jello!) and Father Charlie said Lent was like a pilgrimage that we were all on for 40 days. He kept emphasizing that we had 40 whole days to do something new, and to be become someone different (well technically we had 39 hours and 4 hours, but we got the point). I thought this was soooo cool. I had never thought about Lent in this way. What's with all these journeys lately? Between English class and church, I am going to be all traveled out and maybe even a bit homesick (HA, that was my sad attempt to me funny...no more, I promise).

Of course I want to become a better person and do something fabulous in well, 38 days. But doesn't that mean I have to give something up along the way in this journey? Isn't that what Lent is all about? I feel completely selfish because I cannot think of even one to give up. My mom suggested I give up gum, but gum is like my cigarette...I chew about a pack a day. Giving up gum is NOT an option. So my roomate suggested I give up tea because I drink about 2 cups a day, but why would I want to give up something that is completely healthy for me? Yeah, silly, I know. Then I got thinking, who says I have to give something up? Why not try that whole being a better person thing...yes, this just might work!

I asked my roomate (the church expert) if I would be able to do something within these 40 days, rather than give something up. I came up with a brilliant idea. I thought why not set a goal for myself. Yes, I am well aware that this sounds selfish, but read a bit more and you will see. I absolutely love doing community service, but lately I have been slacking. In the next 38 days, I would like to complete 20 hours of community service. And you know what's funny, I feel like I am setting a new years resolution all over again..but luckily, this one is only 40 days, not 365! Phewwww...and I decided to give up candy as well..just to inform you all...