At the Ash Wednesday service last night, we were asked what we thought we might “do” for Lent. It was pointed out that we could “stop” or “start” (or do both). The usual suspects of abstaining were listed — no alcohol, no meat, cutting back on carbs, watching the words that are said (i.e. being less critical or less swearing), appreciating one’s spouse, giving up Facebook or computer games.

I still do not know what it is I am going to set aside for this season. Something that reflects where I obsess or respond in an way that is not “edifying”? A food group? A habit? Coffee? Taking my lunch instead of buying it? I did not have an answer.

Because I have such a sweet/junk food tooth, I decided that I would abstain from desserts and chips. Even “healthy” chips like pita chips. That doesn’t mean I will deprive my family from them so that I am not tempted. It means that I will let the bowl pass by. Or not grab a few cookies to nosh on while I study at night.

It’s a healthy habit. And probably one that my body will benefit from, even as I miss these little noshes that are a comfort food.

God IS my comfort. Food should not be. Gotta remember the difference. It does strike me as ironic that the Girl Scout cookies were just delivered to our house last week…