Ashes

Today is Ash Wednesday. It is one of the most sacred days for many of the Christian faith. It begins Lent, and a symbolic 40 days imitating Christ’s time in the desert when he was tempted by the Devil. During these symbolic 40 days, those who practice, dedicate this time to bettering themselves by self-improvement or refraining from a vice.

Its interesting that a few weeks ago a friend sent me a rare family photo of my parents, brother and I. We aren’t a big photo type of family so there are very few family portraits of us. And so it was great to get a copy of it.

As you can see, it was on an Ash Wednesday, when I was quite young. (Wasn’t I adorable with those cheeks? lol)

I have always thought that Ash Wednesday was one of the most beautiful masses celebrated in the church calendar. The symbolism, the iconic ashes on the forehead, the reminder of our humanity and need for humility, music and scriptures were always hauntingly beautiful. (And, if you didn’t know, the ashes are the ashes from the previous year’s palms from Palm Sunday)

When I was younger, I loved the “reset” and accountability of Lent with giving something up or making yourself better. But in recent year’s it a nice reminder that I should always try to improve myself and be a better person and is more of a check-in point for the year.

Now, there’s really no point to this post other than to share a little of my family and faith with you and to say, always stay the path when you are bettering yourself and if you ever need someone to help you or a shoulder to lean on, I’m always here!

Until next time,

Peace, Love and Pandas!