Ash Wednesday

This is the little book that followed me all through Lent last year. I read a little everyday and it kept me in focus for the season. I ordered a couple of new books, but they haven't arrived...so I started out this Ash Wednesday by reading a little of this one, while I was at Mass early this morning. We were at Mass for the 7:30. The Church was busier than other weekday Masses. I was reading that this Ash Wednesday service is more well attended than the Holy Days of Obligation for Catholics. I think because it is the beginning of Lent and worshipers want to have a fresh start in their spiritual life. We all strive for a good Lent.

Joe and I have been trying to decide what to give up for Lent. We don't have to do this...it's just a way of sacrificing for our Lord.

We went forward and got the ashes put on our forehead...shaped like a cross. I loved seeing all the little kids getting their "cross" too. Today starts our journey toward Easter...the most joyous day of the Christian year.

Balisha

I don't know who wrote the poem below, but I enjoyed it...

Ash Wednesday

Once in winter,
I stood,
White flakes brushing my face
With white fingers,
I waited with the others
We shivered on the steps--
Stuck out our tongues to catch snowflakes
So cold they would burn.
Soon the big doors would open
On smoke and candles
and a cold thumb would brush
My forehead with a cross of ashes
"Dust to Dust" he would mutter
While snowflakes melted in my hair.