Ash wednesday

Today I had the time, so I went to an ash wednesday service. The sermon was about how we should focus just as much on what we are increasing as what we are giving up, all in the name of Jesus. I easily gave up something for lent this year, but am not sure how I might increase my activity level for lent. I would like to volunteer my services to serve or help the church somehow, but I can't ever really get a clear picture of my work schedule. I might be readily available in the winter and spring, but during the summer, I can't rely on any free time. The worst part is that my dad and grandpa like to bellyache when I tell them I am taking time to go to chuch. They act like I should go to a church four minutes away simply because its four minutes away. I like the church I go to now, even if I have relative anonymity and low expectations.

I am also getting pulled in two directions a bit. I found a girl that seems very good for me, with the exception of two things. Maybe three if I want to be annoyed by her lack of OSU fan-dom. The first issue is going to be resolved, hopefully sooner than later. The second issue is a bit touchier. I don't feel it is right for me to criticize someones belief system, but we do have conflicting beliefs right now. She has agreed to attend services with me and give my catholicism a chance. I had her read the nicene creed as a basic synopsis of the catholic faith. I think at the very least we can work out an understanding. I spent part of this afternoon looking up answers on the matter and feel confident that things can and will work out for us. The issue that I saw the most was with raising children.

The other direction I am hearing is really disbelief. I can understand the point of view that married is married until the right paperwork is done. I am working in the constricts of what my preacher told me. I am not looking to violate any thing that could be considered beyond friendship. It may take a while to get the civil divorce and anullment. I spent most of the afternoon after church today looking up answers and scenarios on a catholic answers site. And, well honestly, I have to spend more time thinking still. I found answers that didn't agree with what I had been told, and am not sure how I should be reacting to some things. I still like the person in question and don't think I am settling or being easily satsified.

Hopefully I didn't make this mess of a post to confusing or insulting. I started this around 2 and its now after 6.

times typed "oftern"-0