Day 0 - Part 2: Not-So-Novel Notion

I was feeling concerned about the theological implications of this Pre-Advent Lent idea. I wouldn't want to disrespect God or the tried-and-true traditions of the Church just because I need a kick in the pants. So I looked up "Pre-Advent Lent" and found that, in the Eastern Church, Advent actually has been, historically, more like Lent -- "a lesser lent" -- than our Western hoopla. Check out the History of Advent here: http://www.spirithome.com/advent.html.

Day 0: Starting Tomorrow...

I was on Facebook (yes, again, and for too long) when I came across a friend's status update: "I need a major zumba intervention. What is it about autumn that gives me healthy food amnesia?"

Among the first 10 responders to the update came this idea: "Maybe try a 40 days until Christmas prep this year, like Lent. You could make up a groovy name for it and start a new trend."

I've been longing for a jumpstart to my good intentions lately. And no, I don't just mean weight loss. Sometimes I get so sick of worrying about my weight. But the reality is, I do believe my extra pounds represent something -- some things -- that I'm not willing to let go of.

When I saw the pre-Christmas Lent idea, I thought, "Cool." In my non-mathematical head, I started figuring when that would start...not until mid-November. "No, I need something NOW!" I got out my calendar and discovered -- Yes, the time is NOW...well, tomorrow anyway.

Starting tomorrow, it's 40 days until the beginning of Advent. So PAL: Pre-Advent Lent will be a time of preparation for that Time of Preparation. I don't know about anybody else out there, but I sure could use some extra time to prepare for the coming of the Savior. And I'm gonna do it!

Who's with me?