Pearl Bailey came sauntering in this afternoon with ashes on her forehead. I said to her, “You’re a little early for Lent, sister, Ash Wednesday is not this week – it’s in February.” She stared at me in dismay. I continued, “OK well, let’s talk about what you are giving up for Lent then…after all Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of the season which calls for reflection and abstinence. I would like to know what you intend to give up. Will you be refraining from your nightly tablespoon of vanilla ice cream? Will you spare the poor lizard population of the world by curtailing your appetite for such? Just wondering, because up until now, Pearl Bailey, you have engaged in a lot of activities that need repentance, and I think it quite wise of you to get a four month jump on it!”
Pearl Bailey exited the room in a huff. I found her an hour later deep in conversation with Ella. Hmmppff….I think they were talking about me!