1 post tagged “mardi gras”
It's been a while since I last posted anything, as I've been rather overwhelmed with my classes as of late. Life is busy – read "crazy – here in Knoxvegas. Seeing as tomorrow is Ash Wednesday (and Charles, my confirmation sponsor, and I will be heading over to the Cathedral for services), I figured it'd be a good time to write about what I'm doing this year in the way of Lenten practices.
First, today is not only Super Tuesday but also Shrove Tuesday. Others call this day "Fat Tuesday" or Mardi Gras,
with which you all are undoubtedly familiar. To make a long story short(er), it's simply the day before Ash Wednesday – the first day of Lent. Strict Lenten rules used to require abstinence from all manner of things including eggs, butter, and milk, so crafty individuals cleared out their pantries by making pancakes.
Lots and lots of pancakes.
And so a tradition was born. I'll be honoring it by a quick trip over to IHOP, myself.
As for actual "Lenten Practices," I'll be following the "Love Life Live Lent" program published by the Church of England. It's really quite awesome! Each day there's something for you to do, usually in the way of a "random act of kindness," and you can follow it using a Facebook application. (Oh those clever Brits.)
I'll also be abstaining from all manner of "sweet things," including sweet tea, coffee with sugar, breakfast bars, doughnuts, pancakes, cookies, and so forth. Wish me luck! Better yet, pray for me; this is the first time I've actually honored the season of Lent, and I've taken on something rather difficult. I am, however, looking forward to it! The word "Lent" actually means "spring," believe it or not. Like spring, the season of Lent is a time of growth, spiritual in essence, in which we challenge ourselves to practice self-control and reflection as we await resurrection: not only of nature but also of Jesus Christ our Lord.
A blessed Lent to you all, and Happy Pancake Day!
