Ash Wednesday

It's Ash Wednesday.... the day that so many give up a certain personal addiction for 40 days and 40 nights. I think this idea is fantastic. I am not a religious person and honestly I have no earthly idea what the original meaning to this ritual is. Although the ability to exhibit control over something that controls you in some form or fashion is very intriguing. As I sit here writing and sipping wine ( a 2006 syrah blend at that) I suppose I could give up wine for 40 days and 40 nights... I have the fortunate ability to be able to indulge occasionally. I enjoy the taste and it gets me silly.... lack of control? I don't think so. Although I can definitely see the temptation in losing yourself every day into something that makes you feel a tad bit different. I could give that up for 40 days... but I don't think so.

Chocolate.. mmmm. Sensual creamy blocks of yumminess that fits between your teeth and savored to all capacities.... I could give that up. But I'm still not sure why. My waistline could tell you why, but I won't let it talk!

I could give up Social Networking.  Filling my days with checking in on those near and far and constant updates to my happenings often with pictures accompanying. I could... but... this technology allows me to be virtually closer to those that can not physically be.

So, what... what can I give up and why?  I can't think of a thing... because I live my life in such a way that everything I do has some sort of meaning to it. I'm already trying to ditch the fast food and junk.  I try to cook more and eat out less... I try not to over exert myself in needless what-nots. My only weaknesses and addictions are to people I love and the emotions I receive in return for making them happy.

So, this Ash Wednesday (even though I am not Catholic and respect those who are to the fullest) instead of giving up something... I will give. For the next 40 days and 40 nights.. I will give .. to those I love and to those in my community I barely brush lives with.  I'm not exactly sure how I will go about this, although I will report back regularly! I'll begin tomorrow.. with the obvious Valentine's Day! One of my favorite days of giving for the year.

Happy taking away and happy giving to all!