Saturday, February 28, 2009

Lent Begins, and None Too Soon

The economic news has been uniformly gloomy. The stock market and my retirement fund are continuing their seemingly inexorable decline. The State’s unemployment rate exceeded 10% for the first time in 26 years. The Governor declared a drought emergency, presaging a summer of water rationing. Leaving California looks more compelling, as neither our Washington nor Sacramento leaders inspire confidence by hesitating, acting, reversing course, and generally flailing about.

Yet, somehow, I don't feel enervated but energized. Lent began on Wednesday, and none too soon. Lent is a time of searching for answers, not from without but within. It’s a time of cleansing, quietude, and focus. It’s a time for dampening our appetites and getting ready for re-birth.

California is the land of second chances, of a better life over the next hill. I still believe that. Let’s take it 40 days at a time. © 2009 Stephen Yuen

No comments: