Giving up Lent...for Lent?
Giving up Lent...for Lent?
Well, kind of. As you have noticed I have been MIA for the past few weeks. And there’s a very simple reason for that: I’ve just been completely exhausted and haven’t had the energy or mental capacity to dedicate even just a few hours to reading, studying, and writing a blog series for Lent. I haven’t felt like writing at all. I do love writing and miss doing writing on a fairly regular basis, and at the same time, I’ve needed a break. I’m hoping to get back into the swing of things after Easter (or maybe a bit earlier), but right now I need some time to just be.
Like many people, I’ve just been feeling exhausted by my everyday life, and also by the reality of the world. The constant pain and suffering, in the world is wearing. And while some would say that Lent is the perfect season to grapple with the realities of being human, I just do not have the emotional capacity at this moment to do so. Plus, living in an area where there are dozens of churches and almost all of them are evangelical and/or Fundamentalist, is incredibly isolating.
Most of my Progressive Christian relationships are now online. And I am grateful for online communities. And I still miss the in-person connection. I miss the in-person community and events. I am mourning being in a space and area, where, even though there were disagreements on many different theological and political ideas, there was still overall agreement on key ideas: the seeking of a better and more just world, and the belief in a God who journeys with us all-but especially the marginalized.
For those who live in rural, heavily Evangelical/Fundamentalist Christian areas, please give me ideas for how you navigate the isolation of not being able to be part of a local community.
“Giving up Lent” is, ironically, a form of embodying Lent. I am letting go of a practice that while normally life-giving, is currently draining. I am listening to my body and spirit, which are currently exhausted and in desperate need for rest. I am allowing myself time to grieve: the dreams and hopes I used to have, not having an in-person church community to call home and the reality I may not have one for a while, and a society and world that continues to thrive on causing pain and suffering.
So for those who aren’t feeling particularly interested in participating in any discussion or rituals during this season, know you are not alone. And it’s ok. Feel free to honor lent or not…however you see fit.
Image palm leaves and ashes in the shape of a cross. Text: Giving up Lent, is ironically a form of embodying Lent.