I have a habit of making things more complicated than they sometimes need to be. Like Emeril, I like to kick it up a notch. or two. For the most part I think it's worth it - even though it can tend to drive others around me a bit bonkers.
But it doesn't always work. Take last year. I was all geared up to dive into 40 days of contemplative prayer during Lent. I had not just one, but 2 books, and a brand new journal with a butterfly design. The first couple days I sat down in my "prayer chair" at the allotted time, went thru the guided exercises, took deep breaths, made the appropriate notations. By Day 4 I sat there and seemed only to be able to focus on the noise of the heat turning on and off and reflected on how there is no such thing as real silence. It was not working. I gave up a few days after that. So much for acquiring that "new spiritual discipline".
SO, while not really making it an official "thing", this year I have been trying to simplify during Lent. Simple meals. Simpler calendar where possible. Even simple prayer?
Back in January, my bible study of the book of Luke hit Chapter 11 where Jesus teaches his disciples to pray - the verses form the basis of what many faith traditions use for the Lord's Prayer. I learned this as a child and have been saying it for years, but it began to take on a fresh meaning as I was reminded how most (all?) of our daily needs can be met in these simple, familiar words.
SO, for Lent I have been saying the Lord's Prayer. No fancy books, no journal, nothing complicated about it. A lot of the time, I listen to a sung version of it, and have included a recent favorite version below.
Some times, you just need to K.I.S.S. (keep it simple and sincere!)
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name.
Thy kingdom come, thy will be done,
on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day, our daily bread,
and forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.
And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.
For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory forever. Amen.
