Dilemma and decision

We knew it was coming but somehow we hoped the forecast might be wrong. What a contrast from this time last year when my St David's Day photo was of daffodils and rain in Cardiff.

Across Britain snow has brought disruption, difficulty and dilemma. Should we all carry on regardless? Or is it wise to cancel what we can and wait for the thaw? The logic of commerce seems to favour the former, concern for human well being might indicate the latter.

Does Lenten practice help in deciding? On the one hand, there is virtue in overcoming difficulty at personal cost. On the other hand, unexpected time to pause and reflect is valuable.

Since I began writing it has stopped snowing here but with the temperature still below zero the dilemma remains unresolved. I intend to put decisions off a little longer.

Lost connections

Lent this year has had an interesting aspect. Choosing to give things up at this time of year has a long and honourable history. Being forced to do so by circumstances beyond one's own control isn't really part of the deal but the experience of doing without broadband for ten days has been interesting.

There were positive aspects. No random phone calls and plenty of time to unpack following a house move. But there was so much needing to be done...so many people to contact...so many people wanting to contact me.

Today's world demands that we all be available 24/7. We expect instant access to services, products and, above all, information. Losing connection challenges every aspect of the way we live. Perhaps that's what Lent is really about.