Archive for February, 2007
Shiny Happy Poor Kids
Last night, I watched Oprah’s television special about the Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy For Girls. The sentiment seemed genuine but I was struck by the fact that with the school, its furnishings and even the girls clothing there was a focus on the superficial.
Don’t get me wrong I love Oprah and I’m sure this school will change the lives of the girls who attend. I just wonder if more girls could’ve attended had the surroundings not been quite so lavish.
On the other hand, I’m sure Oprah didn’t fund this all on her own and I know first hand when you’re raising money, it’s easier to sell bright and shiny.
I enjoyed the program, was moved by the stories and felt elated for the girls who got to attend. If I had the means I’d surely have donated so I guess it was successful.
Is this one of those cases where the end justifies the means?
*BEEEP* Oh Look, There’s A Bus There
Tonight, I was almost hit by a bus.
Yes, it’s true. Yes, it was because of the weather.
No, I wasn’t in my car. No, it wasn’t due to slippery roads.
I was crossing the street. Why did I cross the street? No, this isn’t the beginning of a chicken joke. It is kinda funny, in a way (probably not to most people).
There was so much snow in my driveway the car couldn’t make it in, so I was walking over from the freshly plowed firehouse lot across the street. I had stuff on my mind and although I was careful to glance to my right to see how close the next car was, I got too close to the road before I looked the other way (in the lane closest to me).
I heard *toot* *toot*, paused for a second and *ZOOM* next thing I knew there was a city bus whizzing by three feet in front of me. No, I’m not exaggerating. I wish I were.
No, I wasn’t scared and my life didn’t flash before my eyes. My only thought was, “Oh gee, where did that come from?”
And that, Kids, is why you should always look both ways BEFORE crossing the street.
Now that I think about it though, this wasn’t my first close encounter with a bus.
A few years ago, I was walking and talking with my best friend. I was in the middle of telling a good story when he grabbed the back of my shirt and yanked. Once again there we go with the *zoom*-bus-way to close-not paying attention.
Guess I should probably work on that…
Lent – It’s Not Just For Catholics Anymore!
Yesterday was Ash Wednesday; the Lenten season is upon us. What does that mean?
It’s true you’ll see Friday fish-fry specials all over town, but it’s more than that.
“Lent is a time for Catholics of ridding their lives of the things that clutter them up a time for mending things once broken, a time for growing and developing in the ways of the gospel.”
Many devoutly religious people make Lent about an outward show of faith, but really it’s true spirit is about a change of heart. I don’t know about you but I have some clutter in my life, there are some things that could be mended, and I know that we all have room for growth.
There’s usually sacrifice involved. Traditionally, it’s no meat on Friday. Really, you can choose anything though. There are two clear benefits to this type of sacrifice. It will help you realize your own self-control (a great self-esteem builder) and you will learn a better appreciation for whatever you are giving up.
Ever notice how once you don’t (or can’t) have something you find it everywhere? It’s all over the television or shopping centers. Everyone is talking about it at your work or school, even your friends and family seem to mention it more than usual. No, it’s not a cruel cosmic joke. It’s simply you being more aware of your surroundings.
Another traditional part of Lent is increased Alms-giving; once again staying true to the spirit of the season doesn’t mean you have to give money to the church. Think about this:
- Could you volunteer your time to work with seniors or in a big brother/big sister program?
- Can you donate blood to the local Red Cross?
- Could you clean out your closet and make a donation to the Salvation Army?
- Could you buy some canned goods for the local food pantry?
- Could you perform one random act of kindness every week?
- Could you simply smile at a stranger every day?
I guess my point in all this is there are lessons to be learned everywhere, for all of us. I’m surely not the most devout Catholic or even the best Catholic, but I always celebrate Lent.
For me it’s a part of spring, a time for rebirth and renewal in nature and in us.
