Is boredom a sin

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I read once something to the effect that although we live in a society with lots of entertainment so readily available (TV, computer games, internet), we also live in a society with the most boredom.

And I am wondering, what to do about the times I am bored. I am usually pretty good. If on the weekend, there is a day I have nothing to do, I will take a book or my knittng and sit in a coffee shop for 1-2 hours. I feel I get out of the house, have the opportunity to make small talk with strangers and don’t stay home and oversleep.

However, there are times when planning things so as to not ‘be bored’ almost seems like a big choir that takes a lot of energy. I live alone so it does get lonely. During the week, I work and then try to go to the gym or come home and do some cleaning. So I usually feel I have a good day. But on the week ends, I tend to have too much time on my hands. Any ideas on how to ‘cure boredom’ other than planning activites. What I mean is ‘Is boredom the sympton of somthing deeper?’

CM

 

[Musicadmirer]

Since you live alone, and feel you have much spare time on the weekends, it would be advisable to volunteer your time at a nursing home or a facility for the disabled.
It is a fact that the elderly, when sent to convalescent homes die sooner than living at home.

Everyone needs someone to care about them. Teaching someone how to read through a literacy program at the library is another option. If you decide to give your time in some way, remember that it is a win-win situation.

In reference to your original question, I don’t believe that boredom in of itself is a sin. Sloth is a sin. So those who are habitually lazy, and find themselves bored are committing sin in their laziness, when they could be doing something for the greater good of either themselves and/or others.

 

[AlanFromWichita]

I agree; boredom is not a sin.

That said, here is one thing that whiles away a couple hours a day for me…

I downloaded an mp3 file (used Google to find) of the entire New Testament. (NIV)

I just play that anywhere from 24/7 to an hour or two a day, and just let the Word sink into me as I relax and enjoy it. If I’m doing something else I often leave it on, as a background that occasionally gets my attention. It takes about 16 hours to get through the whole NT. Sounds weird, maybe, but it works for me. I’m playing it now even as I’m typing; it’s in Romans right now.

Alan