Penance

I don't mind penance, as long as I can choose it.  I like to keep control of my sufferings.  For Lent, I will give up lima beans and liver.  Not much interested in either anyway.  But do self-chosen penances challenge my shortcomings?  I think not.  When unchosen annoyances and troubles come my way, my shortcomings tend to take center stage.  I whine and complain.  I get fearful at times.  Aren't penances supposed to be part of changing us for the better?  I hate change!