J.M.J.A.T.K.A
All of my life I have been told that if I were to sacrifice something, say like candy or soda, I would free a soul from purgatory. "They" have also told me that if I endure a difficult task and "offered it up" souls would get freed.***
During this Lenten season, most people give up something, I however, add something- like more prayer or writing in a journal. So I have never given up anything tangible like soda or candy. (This Lent I decided to wake up an hour early to pray. With coffee available this is not difficult.)
Now that I'm of legal drinking age I thought it would be good if I gave up drinking alcohol for a upcoming retreat this weekend. I have to say I love my alcohol, especially speciality beers. I was going to free many a soul from purgatory.
Apparently I don't understand the concept of sacrifice as I have failed miserably. Now don't get me wrong, I haven't gotten completely drunk. It's just that when someone asks me out for drinks I usually go.
This is what goes through my head before going out:
You can't drink, you gave it up.
But they asked me out for drinks. I want to drink.
But you gave it up.
But not drinking is hard.
That's why it's called a "sacrifice".
Go away.
(Goes to bar)
I promise I'm not crazy.
I've just had a thought. Hypothecially speaking say two people are freed from purgatory and go to heaven. Here's a conversation I think they would have:
Todd: Hey, Bob good to see up in heaven!
Bob: Good to see you too, Todd!
Todd: So, Bob how'd you get up here?
Bob: Well Todd, some kid decided not to drink a soda today so here I am!
Todd: That's great Bob! How's your cousin Tim?
Bob: Poor guy, some stupid college girl went out drinking so he's still stuck in purgatory...
Puts a whole new spin on Catholic guilt doesn't it?
***We also give up things to be in solidarity with Christ's suffering.
--AC
No comments:
Post a Comment