Mine, is not a story, but a confession. And you? Do you have any such story to tell for this season of Lent? That is, if you are a Christian, either Roman Catholic or Anglican, and more.
In Christendom, Lent is the season of repentance, confession of sins to the Almighty, forgiveness, charity and all. It is a 40-day period of fasting and prayers. The season is used to commemorate the 40 days of fasting of our Lord Jesus in the desert before He was tempted by the devil.
Observing Lent is an annual personal spiritual exercise; between you and your creator. There is always a story tell about your participation. So what is my 2014 Lenten story as a Catholic? Rather shameful, I must confess. I have confessed all my sins to God, (those I can remember).
But can you believe that I am still nursing un-forgiveness and resentment against people who hurt me for as long as 10 years ago. Why, Eric? Mea Culpa…the Latin language expression of saying it is my fault. And this is happening in a season of forgiveness. Yet I am posing as a Christian. Too bad.
I am still nursing un-forgiveness even against my wife, in-laws, old friends, colleagues and more. There is even some bit of desire for revenge, or get even as some writers would say. Some of my hurts I have forgotten. Some I still remember with grievances in my heart. This is certainly against the spirit of this season of Lent. Lord have Mercy.
Very few people can say this of themselves in a medium like this. The truth is that many of us do it, but few will admit it. That means I do not have any positive story to tell about this Lenten season that will culminate in a fortnight with the celebration of Easter; the crucifixion, burial and resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ.
My story is that I’m praying to God seriously to give me a pure heart that can forgive and let go. It will help me as a storyteller. And it will work out well for me in Jesus name.
You may not be Christian, but you definitely need to forgive others and let go. It will make the world a better place.
Learn to forgive, share love to make our world a better place
Enter the Throne room of God of repentance to get Mercy
Never nurse grievances, resentment, and malice. It damages health
Try to be a better person who forgives and loves at all times
(23 April 2014)
Eric Okeke is a CSR specialist and strategist in brand marketing and mobilizing support for corporate and social issues. He is the brand storyteller, writer, speaker, author and media consultant, with training in chemistry, marketing and business journalism. As a business writer and speaker, he has recorded a good career in media consulting and journalism which he started at The Guardian, Lagos.
Eric’s communications niche is storytelling which he is now using to empower professionals and improve business returns in Nigeria. Email him at, ericokeke@gmail.com, ericosamba@yahoo.com Tel +234 803 301 4609; +234 817 301 4609.
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