During Lent we have an opportunity to hone in on what really matters.  In doing so there is a peeling away of what does not really matter.  When confronted with something that makes a bid for our time, energy, or peace of mind, we would be wise to take a breath and ask How Important Is It?

Certain situations in life are bound to ruffle our feathers.   Egos get triggered easily, tempting us to express ourselves in a knee-jerk reaction.  Too often we lose perspective and allow minor inconveniences to steal our joy.  If we put a little space between the matter at hand and our reaction to it by asking How Important Is It?, we will start to interrupt old patterns of creating unnecessary drama.  We will come to realize that our effort could be better used another way.

Life does hand us moments of urgency and times of actual crisis, but most of our day to day living is not experienced at that level of intensity.   When we learn to distinguish what is important from what is not, we begin letting go of the small stuff.  This frees up time to appreciate the many pleasures of today.  Thus, we become better stewards of our inner resources. 

During Lent let us commit to asking How Important is it?  Experience what a difference it can make.

“How easily do I give away my serenity?” — Hope for Today, p.302

May you be inspired!

NOTE:  This reflection is part of a series entitled “Wisdom Mantras for the Lenten Journey,” initially published by Tau Center.  You can view the entire Lenten reflection series here: Still Point.