I’d love to post something lovely and inspiring about Lent, but my lack of time, available brain power, and general writing ability is leaving me rather helpless in this regard.

I will however share an slightly abridged version of a conversation that transpired during the Faith Formation class I helped at on the Wednesday before Ash Wednesday.

Me (trying to help the child complete her activity):  So what do you think you might want to give up for Lent?

Child (scrunching up face, looking completely perplexed):  Um…

Me (trying to be helpful, and going off the presenter’s recommendations):  Perhaps something you do, or something you like to eat?

Child:  Well…  I can’t give up spicy mashed potatoes, I just love them!

So now whenever I think or read about someone giving up something for Lent, I think about this little girl emphatically and ernestly announcing her passion for spicy mashed potatoes.