The image of a dozen monks stripped to the waist, marching slowly in a circle, each with a cat o' nine tails, chanting in unison and rythmicallly giving themselves a stoke with the whips on cue, is my idea of a pleasant way to spend a Sunday. I believe it is what is called mortifying the flesh. Always a good idea. Sadly, most of us modern folk don't have the luxury of monastic lives with like minded fellows that would afford us this type of Sunday. That doesn't mean there aren't opportunities.
A local 5K roadrace accomplishes much the same spirittual satisfaction. Likewise, you and all your neighbors shoveling kneedeep slush, or any number of punishing suburban chores and pastimes, when done with vigor, and in good cheer will mortify that flesh and make for a holy day.
Then, take a half a dozen Advils and cry yourselves to sleep. Tears of joy.
Amen, brother!!
ReplyDelete