The strange tradition

Recently my cousin balked at me. She couldn't believe that I'm not watching the Heroes episodes she gave me. She really wanted me to catch up to her so that we can discuss it together. I told her, wait, until Easter. She rolled her eyes to say, you're nuts. Why? I'm giving up watching DVDs, I said, you know, for Lent. Her eyes rolled again. You're weird, she said this time. I smiled. Couldn't disagree there.

I didn't try to convey to her that in some bizarre way, this is good for me. This is essential. For centuries now Christians have observed Lent, the 40 days of fasting to anticipate (the celebration of) Jesus' resurrection. We choose something from which to abstain during these 40 days in order to proclaim: I am under the law of freedom. This thing, whatever it is I am giving up for 40 days, does not own me, does not lord over me; Jesus does. I don't need it. Going without it will say to me (and to whoever is listening/watching): Jesus triumphs over the world.

And so, I gave up watching DVDs - alone (so it's okay to be in a viewing party). And reading - alone. By giving up something that takes up your time, it means some other times are freed - what do you do with it? When I find myself reaching for a book, I go toward my Bible instead, or my computer, to journal or to write e-mails to friends. When I'm bored (unemployed as I am) the easiest thing would be to pop in a DVD and veg. Instead, I reach for my phone to call a friend, or go run errands with my aunt.

See, I just closed a huge chapter of my life and I'm in mourning. When I'm stressed out, depressed, sad, etc. I drown out these emotions by numbing them, fill my head with something, anything else. Also, I want to shut people out because all they do is bug (not true but this is my depression talking). Finally, I tell myself and everyone, I'm okay. But you know, I'm not.

I will be, though, I know I will be. Because Jesus is alive. He comes to rescue me.

And so, this tradition is strange, crucial, and powerful. People will roll their eyes at you but that's not what you should be worried about. This might change you. At least I pray so.

That said, I really do want to watch Heroes - and how sweet will that be. So come, Resurrection Sunday!