Spiritual Clutter
The Bucket List
Photo By: thelambcenter.org
The concept of the 'bucket list' has always eluded me. For one, it strikes me as somewhat morbid to make an official list of things to accomplish prior to one's 'kicking the bucket'. And too, I always wonder what one does if they've achieved the list and still are quite alive. Do they create another list? And finally, if one dies with items still on the list does one die with regrets and feeling of failure?
All pondering and humor aside...the ultimate bucket list should be one that leads us to heaven. After all, we are just here temporarily. Remember, our ultimate goal should be sainthood. I'm not implying that those who actually believe in such lists are selfish---I'm just suggesting we'd all do well (including myself personally) to keep in mind the actual 'goal' and purpose of our lives.
In a culture centered around self, this is not an easy task. Those who follow their faith beyond the confines of the church walls are often labeled as zealots or "Jesus freaks." Entertainment often mocks the faithful, and politicians sometimes do as well. People label you as old-fashioned, peculiar or preachy.
Yet, I recently read in the "Imitation of Christ" that we should strive to live everyday like it is our last here on earth. If we did exactly that, what would be on our bucket lists? Suddenly the temporary pales and the focus on the eternal becomes pretty obvious. Eternal (forever and ever) is exactly that....it is ETERNAL!!!
Lent is here. Instead of giving up chocolate, let's truly examine our hearts and see what we personally need to put on our spiritual bucket lists. Churches everywhere are opening many doors to assist you. Special Lenten services, extra Confession opportunities, mission talks, religious exhibitions and volunteer activities abound. Spiritual and corporal works of mercy are awaiting your consideration. Lent is much more than ashes on the forehead and fish fry suppers on Fridays. Let's use this special occasion to make the most of the spiritual bucket list. So when the time comes for our personal passing, we can truly know "job well done, good and faithful servant."
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About the Author
I was born a cradle Catholic and was blessed to attend parochial elementary and high schools. My professional career started in the field of architecture. My only regret about that profession was that I never got the chance to design a Catholic church or chapel. Wanting to fulfill a desire to work closer with people, I eventually transitioned to the education field to work as a para-professional, primarily assisting with special education students. Working with those children proved to be extremely rewarding!
I enjoy time with family as well as attending Mass, gardening, photography, crafting and reading. I also enjoy learning more about our faith and promote causes for the Poor Souls in Purgatory and for the protection of the unborn, elderly and infirmed.
