In chaotic times, it's easy to fall into well-worn ruts for bypassing discomfort and confusion: Sometimes we project them outward, blaming and resenting. Sometimes we try affirming them into submission, sugarcoating to avoid pain. Some of us over-function, getting so busy that our "helping" becomes desperate and counterproductive. 

But it's vastly more transformative to walk through difficulty than numb it. That calls for courage, resilience and discipline: All qualities that tend to grow with practice. Which is why Lent, the 40-day practice of fasting and feasting, can be such a powerful season for transformation. 

Unity's usual approach to fasting and feasting involves abstaining from negative thoughts and focusing on divine ideas. This year, I'm suggesting we expand the practice to include our felt bodily experience: Consider fasting from some worldly indulgence -- a comfort or habit that, while calming, may be zapping your ability to be present in each moment. We all have them: eating, drinking, shopping, screen time; even work and exercise can become idols that anaesthetize if we use them to bypass discomfort that would otherwise support healing. 

So pick one. (For me it's margaritas.) And pay attention when the desire for it arises. Instead of using it to numb out, notice when it happens and why. Are you hungry? Lonely? Stressed? Try sitting with the feeling instead of blocking it. See what you can learn about yourself...about what you believe...and about God's presence within you.