No, not my birthday, even though it is approaching. And aren't these lovely Valentine's/birthday flowers from my parents?
Yes, yes they are. And the best ones have yet to bloom.
Anyway, I'm talking about Lent. The season that I really do love and grow so much through, but one that I appreciate the most because of the struggle. I have been wrestling with what it means to not be owned by consumption and consumer culture, wanting to have less and buy less. For the environment, for my well-being, for people less well-off than myself. So...this lenten season, I'm not buying any non-necessities. (Necessities being narrowly defined as groceries, things I need for a specific therapy session/class, and used books - not new). Other than that, no etsy browsing, no impulsive purchases at Target while I'm "just buying groceries", none of it. I feel weighed down by all the things I don't need, by the time spent shopping, browsing online, wandering through stores looking for something else I just have to have.
Truth is, I have everything I need, and then some. And since I wasn't sure I could actually do this in the first place, I know that I need to.
So I have less than two weeks to buy everything I want! I need to get to it.
Just kidding. That would defeat the purpose. But I think I will be getting some knitting needles and yarn so I can at least have a Lenten project. Nothing wrong with that, right? Right. At least indulge me, please.
After all, my birthday's still coming.
3 comments:
What a great idea, Christie. Loads to think about there.
Think of the knitting as giving yourself time to reflect on the meaning of Lent. it's helping you really!
I mean, people used to knit their own clothes, so I don't think it would be frivilous to knit while you ponder all the blessings in your life. Way to go on such a tough task...although once you get into it I think you will be surprised at how easy it is to not buy "extras"! Can't wait to hear how it goes!
I'm copying you for Lent. We can make it through this together!
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