For the past several years I have given up something for Lent. I don't remember what started it, but alas, there are always
I have given up Facebook, clothes shopping, french fries and probably a few other things I can't remember. When I was thinking about this year I thought about the stresses that have been in my life lately and I realized I needed to give up something I had given up before- GOSSIPING.
Recently I have fallen into opening my mouth wayyyyy too much. And truthfully, it's caused a lot of drama. The moment I see or hear something that hits a nerve in me it's my first inclination to HAVE to tell someone about it. Text, email, passive aggressive Twitter post...it's like I have to get my thoughts out of my head. I don't like this about myself.
I gave this up once before when I was falling into office gossip. It started as just general lunchtime conversations, but then it got to the point where it was all the time chatter. Do you hear this? Do you see that?
This is not to say that I'll be able to just stop thinking all of these thoughts, but hopefully it will get me moving in the right direction. Much of it is spurred by jealousy, grudges, self-righteousness and sometimes just my need for attention. All ugly stuff.
So this will be my mantra for the next 40 days:
JUST KIDDING! I'm going to research some Bible verses to help me with this (and also scribble down notes when I feel like my head is going to explode when I can't tell anyone "Can you believe what so-and-so just did?") Pray for me, y'all. My confidants will probably welcome this break from my incessant chatter!
Leave me a comment if you are giving something up for Lent. I'm sure I could start working on a list of things to give up in future years.
I'm a huge snacker, so I decided to give up snack foods. But, I think giving up gossip would probably be good for me too. Good luck!
ReplyDeleteI love this idea!
ReplyDeleteI am working on thinking of something I need to give up. Last year I gave up crying and getting upset of my son's speech delay and that was the best thing I could have done :-)
I remember the deacon at our church said it's not always about giving something up, but maybe doing something that makes you a better person too. I'm working on some ideas
That is a great thing to give up. It's harder than you'd think I'm sure but I know your family,friends,etc will appreciate it and you'll feel better. I think I'm going to give up Facebook and sweets.
ReplyDeleteThe burn book! lol.
ReplyDeleteYou always choose something that's really hard to give up. I'm impressed again.
Not sure what I'm going to do yet. I think it may be the year to give up shopping!
The book of James would be my first recommendation. And 1st Peter as well. I need to spend more time in those scriptures as well! I so love your honesty & candor.
ReplyDeleteWe are fasting for a couple of weekends throughout the 46 days and we're dining in in order to donate the money saved t our church's Food Pantry.
Blessings to you for a prayerful & purposeful Lent!!
I gave up Facebook clothing sales-I need a smockadot and LWD break :-) I am sure you understand.
ReplyDelete