It’s time to look at how I have progressed with my Lenten goals.  Time is running out; soon it will be Easter.  Have I accomplished my spiritual tasks? 

I have learned that it is prudent to set realistic goals, generally no more than three in number.  Using the F.A.P. acronym (fasting, alms and prayer) which I mentioned at the beginning of Lent, I decided that fasting for me would mean abstaining from inappropriate language, even when alone in my car.   

I have failed.

If it wasn’t necessary for me to travel on SR 200, I might have succeeded to a certain extent.  Even driving on the road at certain times of the day would have helped.  However, I have had to take the road at busy drive times.  Now, truthfully it is not the road’s fault.  Other people drive that road and don’t make the interior of their car turn blue with their words.

So, I confess that I have not succeeded with this task.  Yet each time that I use an inappropriate word in an automatic response to someone cutting in front of me or tailgating at 60 MPH, a small, gentle voice whispers, “T, you were going to stop using that language, weren’t you?”  “Yes,” I respond, “I am so very human.” 

Then, about five minutes later, the same situation occurs again.  The voice responds in kind.  My consciousness about this issue has been raised significantly.  I know that voice is the Holy Spirit reminding me that there is a better way to handle this problem.  The Holy Spirit who has unlimited patience for a wayward sinner.

While I have not and may not conquer this troubling action, my awareness has increased dramatically.  I   readily ask for forgiveness for this offense.  For it is an offense against God who loves me unconditionally and who loves you unconditionally.   

Dear Lord, you have my most sincere gratitude for this guidance and love. 

Forgive my offenses and continue to remind me of Your ways.

Terri