Many of the things Christians used to think about giving up for Lent were fairly trivial: sweets, sugar, tea or coffee, that kind of thing. Of course some of these could have a far from trivial effect. If a smoker managed to give up smoking for Lent, there would be no reason to start again, the addiction would have been beaten, and this could literally save or prolong life. But I would like to suggest some other things to give up during Lent, that would really change your life and even our society.
1-7. The Seven Deadly Sins. Pride, wrath, envy, lust, gluttony, avarice and sloth. These have so much become the motors driving our consumerist lifestyle, that not even Christians are able to remain entirely immune. But an earlier wisdom knew them for what they are: deadly sins, because they destroy the soul. Cultivate the opposite virtues instead: humility, forbearance, contentment, love, moderation, generosity and industry.
8. Careless Talk. Every time you're about to open your mouth, stop and think about what you're planning to say. Is it true? Is it necessary? Is it loving? If everyone applied these tests, the world would be a quieter, more peaceful place. There would be a lot less conflict, breakdown of relationships, grumbling, complaining, gossip and lying. Maybe even no work for politicians?
9. Debt. We are learning now that Britain is the most indebted nation in Europe. Not only in the 'necessary' debt of our house mortgages - though even this contributes to the growing problem of homelessness, and the difficulties of first-time buyers - but in personal debts on credit cards and loans, running into billions. Some people are so deep in debt that even if they spent nothing else, it would take them years to repay what they owe. This is disastrous for them, and can't be good for the economy - not even for the banks, who keep up their irresponsible barrage of loan offers. You may not be able to clear your debts this Lent, but what about taking steps to reduce them? One of the old aims of Lent was to be able to give more away; and the more you are free from debt, the more you will be free to give.
10. Trash TV. We all complain that the more channels there are, the less there is that's worth watching. Well, send a message to the programme makers by just saying No, and not watching their reality shows and all the puffing of so-called celebrities.
11. Celebrity Worship. In fact, give up the cult of celebrity altogether. They aren't real people you know; the definition of a celebrity, as far as I can tell, is 'someone that other people who are thought to be celebrities think is a celebrity'. The older I get, the fewer of them I've heard of anyway; and if we didn't want to know about them (and what we know about them generally isn't worth knowing), there would be less trash in the TV and media.
12. The Motor Car. Help the environment and your own health by leaving the ignition key at home and cycling or walking, or even taking public transport. Instead of driving the children to school, let them walk or cycle. They'll thank you for it when they're still able to walk at 35.
13. Anything that uses Microsoft. For every new computer bought, 60% of the purchase price is the cost of the Microsoft software it's packaged with. Bill Gates, the man who recently was given a knighthood for services to industry, is actually draining billions from this country, from this 'stealth tax' on every computer used. Just imagine the total cost to our businesses - or even just the NHS. Have you ever thought about buying a Mac, instead? Or using an alternative operating system like Linux?
14. Missing Church. Here's what would make the biggest single contribution to the moral and spiritual health of individuals, communities and society: a return to shared faith in God, and the worship that expresses it. It will have to come, sooner or later! So be an early adopter, rather than a late one, of the New Lifestyle.
15. Taking Yourself Too Seriously. I hope it's clear that this Lenten 'rant' is slightly tongue-in-cheek. But please don't let that make you lose sight of the serious purpose behind each of these 'useful things to give up'. Have a happy, and fruitful, Lent!
Published in the Marston Times, March 2004
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