A Lenten Penance

As we began this Lenten journey, I found myself struggling with what to do for Lent, being quite overwhelmed with the unstable staffing situation at work.  I found myself trying to do some little penances each day, but not committing to anything big. 
 
As we neared the fifth Sunday of Lent, I was planning to put the purple cover over our large crucifix in chapel.  I had never done this before, as our maintenance men always took care of it.  This year, however, I was going to give it a try and see if I couldn’t handle it myself.  It would be an interesting challenge, I thought.
 
However, Thursday morning, things really changed!  My best laid plans were put to rest...
 
I have chronic sinus problems, so Wednesday night, before bed, I took a new medication which is supposed to help with congestion.  I woke up with a sore throat, presumably from my sinuses draining into the back of my throat all night. 
 
Things only got worse, and by Saturday morning, I was miserable.  It hurt terribly to swallow.  I found it hard to get any fluids down, which only escalated my condition. 
 
As unpleasant as this situation has been, it has also been an eye opener for me, spiritually.  It has been a poignant invitation for me to unite my sufferings (which seemed terrible to me) with those of Jesus.  My pain forced me to realize, a bit more, what His pain and suffering must have been. 
 
I certainly didn’t pick this “Lenten penance,” but it has been a good one.  Your prayers that its duration may be shortened would be appreciated.  

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