Every worthwhile Lenten practice requires sufficient time to reflect on the experience. So as Lent 2012 comes to a close, it is appropriate that some time be devoted to analysis. First, the obvious questions:
- Was the practice faithfully kept?
- Did it continue to provide benefits?
- Is it worth keeping the practice after Lent?
- Are modifications to the practice in order?
More specific questions may depend on the practice, but here are a few to consider:
- Can the practice be (caringly) recommended to others?
- Have and will others notice beneficial results?
- Are there tangible results that might be put to good use?
- Has the practice found favor with God?
Naturally, these questions may be difficult to answer, especially without hindsight's sharpening touch. And in time, some answers may change. If this seems possible, it might be worth leaving a physical reminder for later examination, an appointment with self, as it were, for a week later, a month, or next year.
To be open and frank about this blog, it has been a mixed blessing. There have been days where the post seemed obvious and the words flowed with ease. There have been other days that were quite difficult. The average time spent exceeded the budgeted amount almost every day. Most days, the extra time spent felt worth it. But there are tasks that necessarily must now take precedence.
There were many lessons along the way. From the sources found and researched, to new books and fresh authors, to Web skills attained. Most interesting, current research on the dynamics of social media has been clearly in evidence in this endeavor. In her TED talk of this week, Sherry Turkle tells of her recent work examining some consequences of being connected through technology:
In a nutshell, as a means of keeping us truly connected with friends and family, the smart phone fails in some critical ways. In a similar manner, as a vehicle for study and communication about Lent, this blog falls short. For example, blogs promise quick, easy access to the latest updates, but the posts here are more suitable for time spent in reflection and contemplation. As another example, blogs offer the opportunity for dialog, but not only has none occurred, a quick scan of a cross section of blog postings related to Lent shows a marked dearth of reasoned exchange. It may be that the distance and anonymity provided by the Web discourage the sharing of personal ideas and beliefs. Or the amount of time required to compose a clear, concise comment is more than people are willing to spend, leading either to no comment or to ones easily misinterpreted.
Finally, for those who wish to continue reading blog posts after Easter, a respected source of like-minded, daily writings can be found in the Sojourner, Jim Wallis' publication of "Faith in Action for Social Justice":
2013 Addendum
I have found that few of the original 2012 posts required significant re-writing, perhaps not surprising given the original desire to pen reflections that did not depend critically on time or place. I have also found that almost all of the citations made a year ago are still current, always a consideration for Web-base access. For these reasons, I plan to leave this blog open and available to all, though it will only occasionally be moderated.
This year, I am grateful to all who have followed these posts, whether on-line or by hard copy provided locally. It remains true that all feedback to date has been made face-to-face, rather than by electronic means. This fact has been my greatest disappointment, betraying my hope to develop connections to like-minded people over great distances.
Still, the experience has been positive, in total, and I am hopeful for new avenues through which to serve God and my neighbor.
May God use your reflections on the practices of this Lent to bring growth and peace.
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