3/10/2023
Dr. Martin Kilbridge
Thursday (March 9) was “National Get Over It Day.” I don’t know anything about that day, but I know a thing or two about Lent which in many ways serves as a 40-day reminder to “get over it.”
Lent is a time for self-reflection on our human fallibility. When we recognize and acknowledge our own failings and seek forgiveness we come to a greater understanding and sympathy for the failings of others. It opens us up to forgiveness. Recognizing our own failings can help us let go of grudges and resentments we have toward others and bring us closer to the forgiving spirit of our loving God.
Long before psychology and self-help books brought a greater understanding and awareness of the human mind, saints, mystics, prophets, and theologians gave us guidance on basic human relationships which begin with understanding ourselves. Pride, greed, wrath, envy, lust, gluttony, and sloth inhibit our ability to form authentic, loving relationships with ourselves, others, and God.
During these 40 days of Lent, we are invited to look inward and contemplate our self-centeredness. Then, when these days come to an end, we can marvel at the glory of the Resurrection and rejoice in the promise of forgiveness made possible by God’s self-sacrifice.