Even though I was raised Catholic, I am not religious.
Spiritual, yes. Is there something more? Something that is unkowning? Yes, I believe there is. Our souls know.
Just as we know in our gut what is wrong and what is right. wrong from right. recognize. But these days there are Happiness Hijackers everywhere you turn.
What is Happiness?
Happiness is subjective. For me, being surrounded by color, and warmth, sunshine, and people that are quick to smile, to laugh, but also not afraid to tackle tough situations, make me happy.
But deep happiness, happiness that I could find even if none of the things or people that make me happy were available, comes from living a life of purpose.
Lent is meant as a time of reflection and repentance. I don't need the repentance part of it, because I'm well aware of mistakes I've made, and possibly am a bit too hard on myself and live with regret (I'm going to try and let that go for 46 days!).
Lent starts 46 days prior to Easter Sunday, but in the religious tradition, it's only 40 days because Sundays are viewed as a "free" day, so to speak. But I won't be taking that "free" day. I know myself enough to know that when I'm on streak of aiming for a beautiful life (more on this later!), a small indulgence, or a skipped day of action, will quickly lead to my willpower dissolving as quickly as warm butter in a hot fry pan.
I love a New Year. I love a New Month. I love a Monday.
I live for the starts. The chapter openers. The hope.
And so, for 46 days, I am committed to using the gifts that the Universe has granted me. I will use these days to aim for a beautiful life, more disciplined and purposeful.
Almost all religion shares one same thread: To Be The Best Version You Can Be.
And I think that's a theme we can all agree on, no matter what religion or spiritual practice (or non spiritual belief!) that separates us.
