Ash Wednesday:

And with that, the Lenten Season is upon us...

Almighty God, you have created us out of dust of the earth; Grant that these ashes may be to us a sign of our mortality and penitence, that we may remember that it is only by your gracious gift that we are given everlasting life; through Jesus Christ our Savior. Amen

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I know not everyone celebrates Lent, but it is something I look forward to and love celebrating. I grew up in the Episcopal Church and have celebrated Lent since I can remember. We were able to attend the Noon service at our church this afternoon, where we received our ashes as a family (Charli's first), and to kick off the Lenten season. 

Lent is truly a time to reflect and renew, to think of what really is important, a time for self sacrifice, and a time to not only better myself as a person individually, but to better my family as a whole. 

Some words from a prayer that really stuck to me were posted by a dear friend last year, and

I would like to share which ones hit home the most and ones I will strive to do this Lenten Season, and continue to do...

Fast from anger; Feast on patience

Fast from worry; Feast on divine order

Fast from complaining; Feast on appreciation

Fast from negatives; Feast on affirmatives

Fast from unrelenting pressures; Feast on unceasing prayer

Fast on hostility; Feast on forgiveness 

Fast from self-concern; Feast on compassion for others

Fast from thoughts that weaken; Feast on promises that inspire

(You can see the full prayer here. Thank you Kate for sharing such powerful words!)

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I hope everyone has a very blessed Lent and truly remembers what this season is all about!

Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return.