Giving Up On Debates for Lent!

By Troy Foster

Another debate on Ash Wednesday – really, is that what we needed?  Is nothing sacred anymore?  I got up this morning, remembering that we’d get to take the kids to church this evening.  Luke and Lily are at the age where they get what it’s about, and Henry – though not at the age – seems to get everything a little early.  So, I had a smile on my face first thing.

I enjoy the Lenten season, but an added bonus this year – Henry getting his ashes.  And understanding what it means.  So, we had the “talk” after dinner.  By this time, it was obvious that we were going to have to split up.  Our youngest had no interest, and Lily was checked out too.  It was Luke, Henry, and I.

The conversation on the way was the best.  After clearing up that the ashes were not from a burnt trash bin we saw earlier, the kids talked about what they wanted to do.  Henry “I love God so much, and I’m going to pick up trash all over the world and make people love Jesus.  Okay, Heavenly Father?,” he asked as he looked up and hands clasped together.  “And you need to stop drinking Diet Cokes, Daddy.  Not just for the 40 days.  If it’s something we shouldn’t be doing anyway, you think God wants us to start it up again?”  What is this kid a preacher?  Anyway, it was fun.

After we got our ashes, Henry pulled my hand to the pew to kneel and pray.  All three of us did.  It was awesome, cute, and spiritual.

Then, as we’re driving home, I remembered that there was a Presidential debate.  Having worked in national politics, I am the geek that watches these things, the State of the Union, and everything else political.  But honestly, I’ve grown tired of them.  It would be different if there were substantive discussions and genuine disagreement about the issues.  Instead, the pre-planned barbs that are planted in the most inappropriate places, making them transparent, the personal digs, and the “sky is falling” tone taken by each if any of the others were to be elected as if he is the only choice – have all become too much. 

The utter lack of civility and respect isn’t presidential.  And on Ash Wednesday – is certainly ironic.  So even before we pulled in the driveway, this political junkie gave up a second thing for Lent – the debate.  I’ll go ahead and end the day on a high note – getting ashes with my sons and even being lectured about my Diet Coke habit.

If you want to read more inspirational and uplifting stories about Henry and his terrific perspective, check out Three Candles (www.threecandlesbook.com.).  It’s a good read and getting rave reviews.  Part of the proceeds go to Henry’s Hope (www.henryshope.org), a foundation inspired by Henry to help sick and terminally ill children.  Henry has a rare form of mitochondrial disease, which is degenerative - but his spirit and attitude will never rest.