First Sunday in Lent

You can't tell from this photo, but self-control is now in 2 pieces.  Yes, broken.
And not between self & control (that would have been ok, at least).
No, it split between self-co // ntrol



 We are using our beautiful glass mosaic signs created by artist friends Margaret Almon & Wayne Stratz during the six Sundays in Lent.  The 1st Sunday being - self-control - which is one of the Fruits of the Spirit.  It did not escape me, the irony that of all the 9 fruits - peace, joy, love, patients, kindness, goodness, gentleness and faithfulness - it would be self-control that breaks!  Now "self-co" is separated from "ntrol"...  I'm sure, if I pondered on this long enough, I would come up with some pithy saying or deep insight into what that might mean.  Alas, not as of yet.

However, what I do wish to reflect upon is how come 'self-control' is a fruit of the Spirit in the first place? Control of self is often dismissed as 'too hard' or 'not much fun' and only for those who are naturally disciplined like Olympic athletes or world class musicians.  Perhaps its really more about interpersonal & intrapersonal freedom through self-control. How we think and then act as if we "loved our neighbor as our self."  Would self-control come more naturally, if we did love God with all our heart, mind, soul & strength?  Would then this evasive (at time troublesome) Fruit be born in us through the Spirit?  It is often said one reaches self-control through gratitude....what do you think?