Comments on: I’ll Just Have Water

By: Heather

Heather — Thu, 12 Mar 2009 10:28:53 +0000

Thank you all for the supportive comments. This challenge has already served as a conversation piece to allow me to talk about faith; it has put me in touch with family I haven’t communicated with in a while; and it’s a daily reminder of all the little things I take for granted. And I still have 33 days to go or should I say grow. Thanks again!

By: Joy

Joy — Wed, 11 Mar 2009 17:15:54 +0000

I like your point – I don’t think my boycotting of soft drinks for 40 days will change the world but it will change me. And that makes Lent so powerful we perfect ourselves to be more like Him. It is a challenge but He died on the cross for us – we can try and give a little back. I have sacrificed many different sweets in the past. I am not giving up anything this Lent. With Danny and work if I can get a second to grab a snack I ought to! Instead I am working to be a better wife mother co-worker. I hope to be more patient loving and more trusting in God’s will by Easter. Big challenge huh?

By: David

David — Wed, 11 Mar 2009 09:26:04 +0000

Heather Though you’re not going to better the world with your Lenten sacrifice you are bettering YOU. I think of it two ways – a) you’re developing strength by denying cravings even if it is only for a little over one month and b) you’re putting things in perspective. Giving up soda does not equate to the pain suffered during Jesus’ crucifixion but it reminds you of what he went through for us at least. Thanks for the insightful commentary.

By: jeanne

jeanne — Wed, 11 Mar 2009 01:55:19 +0000

What a great article—I too think OK how will my giving up or sacrificing improve the planet or mankind?? I have never given up a thing for Lent–ever. All of my 7 kids do however. Now how is that possible?? Where did I miss out on the ‘guilt or else’ thing?? Don’t know but your crisp clean refreshing and insightful article certainly gives one a pause. I just may this Lent–56 yrs late. Thanks for your insight Heather. Well said!!

By: Kathy

Kathy — Wed, 11 Mar 2009 00:38:07 +0000

Lent is a special time of year. I can remember giving up candy and it seemed like an eternity. Giving up something for Lent is truly a test of strength. I can also remember as a child going to church every day during Lent. Going to 7:00A Mass every day was really a challenge. I think it was my Dad’s committment but he wanted to take the whole family. My two sisters went for about a week and I went for the whole 40 days. When you achieve a goal it makes you aware that you can achieve other goals as well. Thanks for your wonderful article!

By: Jeeja

Jeeja — Tue, 10 Mar 2009 19:16:40 +0000

Yes I gave up pastries once for lent. I didn’t feel that I experienced any personal growth but I did discover the strength of will power.

By: Miteymowse

Miteymowse — Sun, 08 Mar 2009 10:14:15 +0000

Heather here’s another challenge for you….
See how long you can go without soda AFTER Easter.

I gave up on soda years ago because the caffeine bothered me. After a while I lost the craving and now I think it tastes like carbonated sugary motor oil. Juice and water for me please!

To be honest it was diffcult at first to resist the soda temptation. To help me get through it I would only drink it when I went out to eat. I considered it as a treat I could look forward. But eventually the excitment wore off and I stuck with the yummy alternatives that wouldn’t tear up my stomach.

Good luck and keep us updated on how your challenge goes!

By: Janet P

Janet P — Sun, 08 Mar 2009 10:03:37 +0000

Way to go Heather. That is the first step in the right direction.