My brilliant friend Callista Isabelle suggested that after 40 days of Lent (for which there are countless books, websites etc., to guide us) we might need a similar ideas-factory to give proper attention to the 50 days of Easter.
"50 days?" you cry? Yes, unbelievably, there are more days of Easter than they were of Lent, and every single one of them deserves an Alleluia, and a declaration of joy and hope.
So how shall we celebrate Easter with hope for the future, and joy in the present tense? Here are some ideas for starters - do these in no particular order, and if you feel really inspired do more than one a day! And please add your ideas in the comments!
1. Plant some flowers in your garden or indoor flower pot to bloom later.
2. Tell someone one reason that you appreciate them. "Thank you for the way you... ... ... ...; I really appreciate it!"
3. Give thanks for 3 good things in your life.
4. Let every one of your prayers today begin and end with "Thank you"
5. Cook a meal for friends you haven't seen for a while.
6. Find a local charity and give them something - time, money, donations from what you don't need any more...
7. Pray for your enemies; those who hurt you or disrupt your life.
8. Carve out an afternoon, or even a whole day, to hang out with your friends or family with no particular agenda.
9. Walk to the top of the nearest hill. Or, if you live on flat land, to a local landmark or tower where you can climb up and see the view.
10.