If I give up TV for lent, but allow myself to watch the news with hubby, does that count? Am I cutting myself too much slack? I’m torn because I live with a man who is as fond of the TV as I am, and we often spend an hour or two each night watching the news and Tonight Show before going to bed. I don’t want to punish hubby by preventing his nightly routine. Also, as he is not Catholic (but remains supportive), I’d like to keep it that way, and I doubt this course of action would win the Church any brownie points in his eye.
I’ve also thought about giving up caffeine, but feel that would be a greater sacrifice for those who have to live and work with me. Hubby suggested giving up all reading that is not spiritual in nature and judging by the knife-like pain deep in my heart, he may be onto something. Of course, spiritual reading is still reading, and I would undoubtedly enjoy it greatly, but the thought of no variety on my nightstand is more than a little saddening. Currently I have some really interesting titles I’m looking forward to digging into, including:
Guns, Germs & Steel – recommended by both Mandi & Julie, it’s finally been bumped up to the bedtime reading stack.
The Magician’s Book – a skeptic’s adventures in Narnia – just discovered at the library and looks intriguing.
Bonk: The Curious Coupling of Science and Sex – C’mon, you know you’re curious too!
The Riddle of the Shipwrecked Spinster – try to ignore the dreadful title. It’s by Patricia Veryan and all of her books are delightful romps through mid-17th century England with delight characters and plots interwoven with the historical events of the time. And it’s not smut – there’s nary a sex scene to be found in any of her books!
If I do decide to give up reading for Lent, I’m going to have to cram a lot of books into the next couple of days. Otherwise I risk sending a stack back to the library unread (THE HORROR!!)
Other options I’m considering giving up are: sugar, meat and internet (gulp).
Is it bad that I have so many areas of indulgence to ponder foregoing here?
Posted by Mandi on February 23, 2009 at 7:44 pm
Can your Lenten sacrifice be committing to DO something rather than giving something up?
Cause I think you should get a friend *cough cough* to make a list of books you are obligated to read in the next 40 days. You could tell this friend *cough cough* what you want to read and then they *ahem* could incorporate some of your bedside books into an edifying list.
Posted by KK on February 23, 2009 at 7:52 pm
Well, for the official answer on that, visit Sister Mary Martha’s website. She’s not cutting anyone ANY slack these days.
However, I am intrigued by your proposal, especially if the reading list is truly edifying. Although I may have to give up something else to supplement my lenten sacrifice…
We should talk.