Thursday; February 29

I don’t know the whole history and purpose behind Leap Day, but I kind of get the impression that it had something to do with correcting some of the inadequacies of our calendar. Now, while there may be some scientific aspects to the presence of Leap Day, I am aware of some of the social elements to it. I believe that when I was child – back before an emphasis on equal rights – it had something to do with the Sadie Hawkins traditions. (Some of you younger folks may need to Google that.) In my mind it was a reminder of the Olympic years. When both winter and summer Olympics were held in the same year, they were held in a Leap Year. With the current Olympic cycle, it appears to precede the Summer Games. Come to think of it, it also reminds us that we have a national election coming up … I guess we can’t blame that on the Leap Year, though.

As I thought about Leap Years, I got to thinking about another potential use for them – what if we take the extra day to go the extra mile? What if we dedicate one day each four years to let go of some of our hard feelings or offer forgiveness to others? Shouldn’t four years be long enough to harbor ill-will? If things haven’t changed in that period of time, what’s the use of hanging on to them any longer? The Bible advocates forgiveness whenever we need it by saying, “Be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ also has forgiven you.” (Ephesians 4:32); but maybe we can establish a special day of reflection and reconciliation each Leap Year.

I hope you enjoy the day and this year. Who knows, maybe letting go of the past is the best way to ensure an enhanced future.

Think About It!

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