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mindful in lent

follow the cross

It’s Lent. It’s been Lent since March 1st. I have my own private observations going on, and I just realized that next week is Holy Week.

Like Advent, Lent holds a special place in my heart and spiritual rhythms. It’s the 40 days of preparation before Easter; a time to reflect, to cultivate gratitude, to focus on others and our relationship with the One who made it all possible, God.

I have a daily prayer rhythm, dedicated quiet time in the morning, but Lent goes deeper.


Last year I chose to add a practice to my routine instead of giving something up. For 6 weeks I tried to be very mindful of what was going on around me, in me, in people I know and don’t know, in my city and so on. My journal was filled with “mindful” phrases, sentences and paragraphs.

Snippets from my journal: I’m mindful of …


time, taking time, making time, capturing time, savoring time, enjoying time … being thrown around by my feelings. feelings are real, but they’re not in control, or at least they shouldn’t be … belle’s devotion to us, her family … deep awe and gratitude … the power of our words and how we conduct ourselves … not being very mindful … busyness occupies. it’s an occupier of our time and intentions, our affections and focus … scuttled clouds floating over the mountains … shadows cast on the sidewalk from the split rail fence … leaving parts of me in many places and taking parts of others with me to the places i go … having a choice to trust you, even in confusion, definitely in confusion … the steam from my coffee …


My process of remembering, reflecting and recognizing is my personal journey. I hope you have your own.

Peace, my friends –

Missy


If you have been mildly amused, challenged or inspired by what you have read, please pass on my blog to a friend, colleague, family member or even random acquaintance


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