A Lenten Sacrifice: Abstaining from Indifference

Anne DeSantis suggests an alternative Lenten practice: seeking ways to rid ourselves of an attitude of indifference toward others.

During the season of Lent, we pray, fast, and give alms in order to grow closer to the Lord and to develop a deeper relationship with Him. Some choose to give up things such as chocolate, sweets, or coffee as a Lenten sacrifice. Others abstain from social media, TV, or other activities which draw us away from God. In addition, there are some who decide to give up gossip or some of the needless activities of daily life.

In reflecting on what to abstain from, there are an array of things we may choose to do as a Lenten sacrifice. We may decide to be kinder to others and to become more engaged with our family members. It may be a good idea to look at some of the relationships in our lives to discover the people toward whom we may feel indifference. These are people we don’t give much thought about, or we simply don’t care about their opinions or presence in our lives. They may be old friends with whom we've lost touch, people we do not respect, or family members we ignore and don’t care much about.

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Abstaining from indifference

When we decide to give up indifference for Lent, we strive to care and offer compassion for others. Giving up indifference is not just for Lent; it is valuable to rid ourselves of this attitude beyond the season. Whether we feel this way toward an individual person or group, we can search our hearts as to why we feel indifference. The “I don’t care” attitude is not godly, and it is also uncharitable.

Ways to become less indifferent toward others

Simple ways to rid ourselves of indifference include becoming more aware of others, actively listening to others, and befriending the rejected of our world. We can offer deep care to those who lack support. There are people in our lives who would love our friendship. There may be a neighbor, a co-worker, a family member, or someone else who needs your help. You can begin to show kindness in simple ways.

When we search our hearts for the reasons we have developed a sense of indifference, we can work on changing our behavior. It is not an easy thing to admit our wrongdoing, but Lent is the perfect time to make a change. We can become more caring, kind, and loving toward other people, especially those for whom we may look down upon or judge.

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It is not an easy thing to admit our wrongdoing, but Lent is the perfect time to make a change. #CatholicMom

God can work miracles in our lives and in the lives of others when we recognize the indifference we feel for others and become better people for God’s sake. The next time you are in the presence of someone who is lonely, rejected, or not respected by others, take a moment to greet them. Find ways that you can eradicate indifference from your heart during this Lenten season and beyond through prayer and perseverance. Ask Jesus to give you the grace to become more caring and supportive to those toward whom you have felt indifference in the past.

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