Lent

I thought I’d reflect a bit about the Lenten season. I grew up Roman Catholic, and as such, Lent was a regular part of our year. We observed religious, dietary and voluntary sacrifice during the 40 days leading up to Easter. As a kid, I understood that Lent was a time to give up something I liked and think about Jesus and the sacrifices He made for us; but, I’m not sure that it all added up to much more than a big hassle with a pretty dress, bonnet and big dinner at the end to me back then. 

As I matured and began to find my own way spiritually, I took a hard look at Lent, and began to appreciate its value in the lives of those who choose to observe the tradition. 

While there will always be an old Catholic girl deep inside me, I’m a happily practicing Protestant today, preferring to rely on God’s grace for my salvation versus some combination of Grace and works. I know exactly how flawed I am, and for most of my adult life, I’ve concluded that it’s a better bet to put my faith in God’s grace than my own propensity for good works. 

I’ve never given up observance of Lent. I find it a necessary tool for reflection and regeneration of faith. For more than 15 years I’ve chosen to give up something I really love for Lent. 

Cursing.

For those of you who know me, you know that the infusion of a well chosen expletive into conversation is something I don’t always shy away from. I wouldn’t call myself a potty mouth; but, particularly when trying to make an important point, or after a Guinness, an occasional expletive can be known to cross my lips. I’ve found that cursing lowers my blood pressure (especially when working cows) and there are days when people’s reaction to it amuses me. 

Most years, I charge myself $5 per incidental slip. Please note that the Lenten season coincides with spring cow work and that my family sometimes love to egg me on. Over the past decade or so, I end up with $500-$800 a year in my Lenten curse jar. Early on, I allowed my family to donate my funds to the charity of their choice; later, they decided that since they had to listen to my ranting, they deserved to keep the booty. Horses, guns and assorted other niceties were partially paid for with my curse cup. 

This year, I approached Lent with the same earnest and serious commitment as always; as we got close to Ash Wednesday, I tried to remind myself that my upcoming legal meetings, and a couple wrecks with cattle were no excuse for breaking the bank this year. I also added a short but concise practice of breathing and prayerful meditation to my morning routine. 

Now maybe I’m softening, but I’m well into my 40 day exercise and I’m still sitting at under a $100. My daughter is astonished at my reserve, and frankly, so am I. I guess the lesson is, where there’s a will, there’s a way…and for me anyway, having Donald Trump in the White House sure helps me stay calm and less profane.

Kris Stewart is a rancher from Paradise Valley, Nevada