Full of Years; ashes; Lent

When Lent began this year, it struck me as odd that the Ash Wednesday rite is called The Imposition of Ashes. This word—associated with “control from an external force”—doesn’t sit lightly on my soul. In most contexts it feels abusive for anyone or anything to intrude on my life without my permission. I don’t like to be manipulated by the insistent actions of others. I’m not naturally disposed toMORE...