LENT IN FULL SWING!
I like to think of Lent not as a Season of Denial, but a Season of Intention--if we focus our intention on that which matters most to us--our families, our cherished friends, gratefulness for our health, and thankfulness for our talents(which are surely given us, from God) we will feel the love and power of Holiness, manifest in us.
Locate the talents you possess, and use them to illustrate the truths in your life. Be an instrument of change, renewal, hope.
HOW to accomplish this? Volunteer. Even if it's only an hour per week, it matters. Reach out to the neighbor who seems cut off, or shut-in. Drop off food at the Food Banks, or Community Centers(currently, most are suffering from a shortage of food to give out, and a surge in folks who need food, and help!). Offer to walk a neighbor's pet.
And pray each night, for understanding. Not just for YOU to be understood, but for understanding, so you may "minister" to your neighbors.
For more ideas on volunteering, particularly with eldery folks, check out:
www.lisananetteallender.blogspot.com
and scroll to my entry on the elderly(posted just days ago).
Peace, kids.

PEACE UPDATE. A list of things to do, before November's historic election, to advance Peace.
1) Watch CNN's new series "Black in America" (check your local listings)
Next Wednesday and Thursday, it will detail how some executives have stated they will hire a white man who is a convicted felon, with no high-school diploma, OVER a black man with NO criminal record, who has a four-degree. Sound unbelieveable? Tune in to see how this kind of bigotry, still goes on. Awareness creates power which can then create Peace.
2) Aim to meet different people, people outside your "comfort zone". I am a very left-leaning young woman, but I can honestly say I have several cherished friends who happen to be far to the right. Though we don't discuss politics, we hold many values in common: a love of family and friends, a love for our home, a sense of faith, a celebration of the arts, a strong work ethic.
Learn to be open to others who may disagree with you. You can find common ground. And that is what Peace is all about!
3) Extend a hand through volunteerism. There must be something you feel strongly about. So, go out & support it!