How do you learn more about another religion's customs by writing a piece mocking it? Sorry if a 2000 year old religion doesn't fit into your 2012 soccer mom lifestyle. Customs are there to be followed or not followed, just like in your religion. You are right about one thing. This piece is highly offensive. Congratulations.

One might give up "gossip" in favor of "giving the benefit of the doubt". Another thought might be to give up "some free time" in favor of "volunteering". It's always good to adopt a more ecumenical spirit and learn about other religions' practices.

"Liquor? That’s a bad idea for those who must live with me. I’m nicer after a little sip or two of something medicinal."

I'm a doctor of fifteen years and this is very indicative of alcoholism. I recommend you see some sort of professional or at the very least abstain.

Also, perhaps you could consider giving up writing these poorly-worded, reverse-nazi, incredibly offensive articles for lent. Maybe then this world could at least have some happiness when it comes time for Easter.

Try attending a Lenten church service--any denomination--if you actually want to learn about Lent.

Or people could give up literalism. This article was funny and I thought the writer was poking fun at herself and her lack of will power. Can't we all relate to that, at least a little?

"The realization that I’m not willing to renounce anything for over a month seems a compelling reason to work toward that very goal." How is this mockery?

You are correct, John.
The author's attempt at cleverness is completely unsuccessful and is offensive. Unfortunately her essay reflects her complete disconnect with the concept of sacrifice and service and better reflects the self centered nature identity of the north suburbs.
While Karen's point about the intent of the message may have merit, couldn't the author have left religion out of it or mocked the self-sacrifice/discipline aspects of other religions as well instead of just using Lent and Christianity as her basis?
As has been the case with a number of the author's other column's, it is off target and less than amusing.
How about a higher standard from the Patch.

Thanks for your humorous and thoughtful take on Lent, Sally. Clearly talking about a religion that is not one's own is akin to stepping on the third rail. I appreciate the perspective of someone on the outside looking in. And, as a Catholic, I appreciate that there is a priest in a supermarket on Ash Wednesday. He clearly recognizes that a 2000 year old religion may need to make a few concessions on customs to support the flock. (I am sure the same sentiment created the speedy 7 AM Mass on Sunday morning). I hope he reads this essay. I think he will appreciate your effort to understand Lent.

Hugs!

Laundry? Dishes? Being nice or trying to be "nice"? Spending time with my mother. Those are all things I'm willing to give up on for 40 days. Do these things count? Maybe I will give up getting my hair colored for 40 days? We could go out to dinner!

HI-larious article, btw. I stopped understanding boundaries a while ago, so can't detect a hint of crossing the line anywhere. Bravo!

My earlier comment didn't go through. These are thing the things I would consider giving up for lent: laundry, personal hygiene, dishes, spending time with my mother who always delivers some line like "Well, you aren't a pencil" while my mouth is full. Do those things count?

I found the article very entertaining. Sally does a great job summarizing the spirit of utilitarianism that pervades our society. We are blessed to live where we appreciate and learn about all religions. Lent has 3 pillars: Prayer, Almsgiving, and Fasting. "I Give" is what I think we should aspire to.

I have to agree with John Russillo, although I am not a Catholic, this article was not imformative and lacked any depth in fact it encapsulates the pointless drivel that lazy journos subject their readership to, self absorbed and oppinionated, more likely to promote ignorance and predjudice. Yes, I have a sense of humour, this is a failed attempt. My interest factor zero, time wasted on it (including this comment) approx 4 minutes.

Yes, you succeeded at offending. The next time you want to learn about something, do it in a way that is not offensive. Go talk to somebody. Attend a service. Read a book. Your approach in using The Patch to explore and educate yourself is selfish. Additionally, you added negatively to religious stereotypes. The Patch should have higher standards.

I'm not particularly religious or offended by this. But I have a thicker skin than many. However, if you can't see how cheap and rude it is to openly mock a religion, maybe you need a little more of it. Let me start you out. Maybe you missed this one ... Matthew 7:12.

"I embody the modern, shallow values of contemporary consumer culture." Indeed.

I learned about Passover in my Catholic grade school.

You sound very ignorant and pretentious. Instead of taking a look at Lent, take a good look at yourself.