40 Reflections #21: 40 days of raw recollections during the Lenten Season
Chocolate, sugar, sweets, avocados, wine, meat, bread, you name it, I’ve given it up for Lent.
Stuck on avocados? Let me explain.
In elementary school, my mom would wrap a hearty slice of the savory fruit in a piece of foil. Rolling around in the bottom of my thrice (at least) used lunch bag was a clever salt shaker. When the shaker’s top push button was pressed, it would shower the yummy avocado with just enough of the white seasoning. I loved avocados so much in the 5th grade, I decided I should try to go without. Luckily, I still had my homemade tortilla with butter and green chili inside my lunch to tide me over. Thanks Mom!
This year, I am abstaining from a few culinary favorites, but was moved by Pope Francis’ worthy suggestions to opt for a lifestyle of goodness every day. An even better idea.
Here they are:
- Fast from hurting words and say kind words.
- Fast from sadness and be filled with gratitude.
- Fast from anger and be filled with patience.
- Fast from pessimism and be filled with hope.
- Fast from worries and trust in God.
- Fast from complaints and contemplate simplicity.
- Fast from pressures and be prayerful.
- Fast from bitterness and fill your heart with joy.
- Fast from selfishness and be compassionate to others.
- Fast from grudges and be reconciled.
- Fast from words and be silent so you can listen.
Our paramount Pope Francis. So kind. Always choosing the right words.
Incidentally, if you decided to give up the traditional goodies, here is a sweet treat to give you energy for your next workout.
Power Balls – A healthy snack for all!
1 Cup dates
1 Cup Peanut/Almond Butter/Sunbutter (or try the new hazelnut butter at Costco)
3 TB Cocoa
In food processor, blend dates first, add nut butter and cocoa. Hold onto your food processor, it may shake a bit.
When well-blended, use a teaspoon and form into balls, roll in cocoa, refrigerate, and enjoy!
runonmom.com 