May you have a happy Lent

Lent is about happiness in many ways. It is a preparation for one of the most joyous days in history: Easter, when Jesus rose from the dead. Lent is focused on the happiest notion in the universe: redemption.

Lent is a time for reflection -- exploring one's inner self in relation to the Creator -- an occasion to experience a sense of deep bliss that lasts far longer than the transient joy that accompanies a "job well done" or a gourmet meal.

Happiness can be found during Lent by recognizing the blessings we have and sacrificing a portion of them for others. Most people reading these words are well enough off to give generously to the victims of recent earthquakes in India and El Salvador, to causes they support, or to the needy down the block. (Many occasions for doing so occur during Lent; this weekend, for example, a collection will be taken up in parishes for the Latin American, Native American and Black missions; and throughout Lent, Operation Rice Bowl is underway.)

Lenten happiness can also be claimed through reconciliation with others and with God. Walls of separation can be torn down and bridges of communication rebuilt if we put aside old grudges and half-remembered slights in favor of forgiveness. Restoring relationships leads to a profound sense of inner peace.

If we participate in the prayers, spiritual exercises, appeals and other programs of Lent, the next six weeks can be a time to come closer to God and one another. What could make us happier than that?

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