Really, this time of year is when my true Catholic nerd becomes shockingly obvious. It explodes out of my skin where it has been quietly hiding, poking its head out every so often.
I have a confession (no pun intended. I am incapable of doing puns): I love Lent. Is it weird that I really like giving up stuff that I feel like I can't live without, increased spiritual reading, Adoration hours all over the freaking place, PURPLE VESTMENTS, and the avoidance of the *gasp* *shudder* forbidden Lenten word......Alleluia?
Also, I just had the strangest desire to buy a different rosary to put in every single bag I own....and I own a lot of bags. I'm a girl.
The other day, I became positively giddy describing to my boyfriend every detail of my family's Holy Week rituals. Ben-Hur on Good Friday anyone?
Thinking about how much I love Lent, it occurs to me, why can't we live with this intense, joyful desire to unify oneself to Christ's suffering on the cross every day, Lent or not? During Lent, I am more than happy to pass up those amazing looking cookies at the Pryz with the thought in my mind, "Offer it up," gladly making my tiny, insignificant sacrifice meaningful. I eagerly flock to Caldwell Chapel after class in the afternoon for a little visit with Jesus, basking in His Love as He lifts me up to guide me through the challenges of the rest of the day. I devour spiritual reading, soaking in every piece of knowledge and possible fulfillment I can squeeze out of it, thrilled at the prospect of enriching my mind in the Faith. Why can't I do that every day of my life?
Lent brings out the best Catholic in me. And this year, I think I have a "Lenten resolution," if you will.
When Lent comes to an end, I want to live with that Lenten mindset, with glad suffering, joy in the presence of my Lord in my everyday life, excitement in the knowledge I can gather from the immense stores of knowledge the Church offers me.
At least, I'll try.
Now, if you'll excuse me. I have some rosaries to find. And by some, I mean, you don't even want to know how many....
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