the last few weeks i have been preparing for the great lent.
in the past, lent has taken several forms.
lent was first introduced to me as a child,
as my parents found it important to teach me the blessed tradition.
candy was an eight year old's vice.
i carefully tucked each piece of candy i had been offered over the forty day period, safely into a pencil box.
easter had never been so sweet.

last year,
lent was all traditional like,
ashes on forehead.
trying my hand at asceticism with a brother.
solidarity brought a cold lent,
parkas to bed.
records at a stand still,
collecting dust.
candles to illuminate paths to late night potty breaks.

i must admit that i am anxious and dreading the orthodox way.
i have yet to have such preparation for a lent.
daily readings, the anticipation, mourning.
may i encounter The Christ in new ways.
may this years asceticism be pure.
may charity and love pour from the Source.

ashes to ashes,
dust to dust.

LORD, mercy