To be more yourself
Do you remember terms such as "mortification" "renunciation" and “penance”? What do we associate fasting with? The mentality of Western man today is no longer able to see the value of this practice, considering it a relic. Fasting is not an idea of Christianity. Many cultures and religions practiced austerity long before Christ came. Apparently, people valued them very much. The Church has kept this exercise, taking over the experience of the ages.
If we want to understand the meaning of renunciation, look at our habits. How many of our daily activities do we do mechanically: take a shower, eat meals, watch TV, go to school or work, etc. We do not even have to think about it. How strong are the habits - just think for a moment: overeating, forgetfulness, lack of self-control. There are also good habits: punctuality, reliability and balanced accuracy or ... brushing your teeth. Do you want to change your life? Start working on your habits. It will probably cost us some effort - it will hurt at times, but it will bear fruit on the end. Instead of focusing on the negative side of the fasting, try to view it positively.
" An atomic habit is a regular practice or routine that is not only small and easy to do but is also the source of incredible power; a component of the system of compound growth.
Bad habits repeat themselves again and again not because you do not want to change, but because you have the wrong system for change.
Changes that seem small and unimportant at first will compound into remarkable results if you are willing to stick with them for years.
A bad habit is won over by a good one, while a good habit transforms nature, and what previously seemed difficult, later turns out to be feasible and easily accessible" - wrote St. Thomas a Kempis.
The time of Lent is perfect for such an endeavor. Think about what you would like to take, where to start. Do not be under the illusion that you will change completely. Choose something small according to your strength. Then practice this habit daily. Do not be discouraged by your failures or the slight result of your efforts. What to make the subject of the fasting? Perhaps it is to be friend to yourself rather than an enemy and a critic, to see more good in yourself, to see your talents and achievements. From time to time, instead of persistently looking for your mistakes, it is worth picking out what is noble, counting the favors given to you and thanking for it. Each of us carries immeasurable treasures. Lent is for us to discover and enjoy this wealth.
Until Tomorrow
fr. george