- Feb 5, 2002
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The “doldrums” are an area of the world’s oceans, encircling the globe roughly near the equator, known scientifically as the “Intertropical Convergence Zone” (ITCZ). It is characterized by windless weather and still seas, which impeded and slowed ocean navigation before the rise of motor driven seagoing vessels.
When a pre-mid-19th century sailing ship hit the doldrums, the sails would go lank, the ship would drift and spin aimlessly, and the ship’s crew would become despondent and lethargic. As victuals and water began to run short, the doldrums instilled a sense of helplessness and hopelessness on the ship, veering even toward despair. Only wind and current could deliver them from the doldrums. They were helpless to save themselves.
From this geographic occurrence, we use the word “doldrums” to describe a blue state of mind or listless period of time. To be in the doldrums is to feel emotionally stalled, morally adrift or spiritually mired. The term implies stagnation or even depression.
Continued below.
www.oursundayvisitor.com
When a pre-mid-19th century sailing ship hit the doldrums, the sails would go lank, the ship would drift and spin aimlessly, and the ship’s crew would become despondent and lethargic. As victuals and water began to run short, the doldrums instilled a sense of helplessness and hopelessness on the ship, veering even toward despair. Only wind and current could deliver them from the doldrums. They were helpless to save themselves.
From this geographic occurrence, we use the word “doldrums” to describe a blue state of mind or listless period of time. To be in the doldrums is to feel emotionally stalled, morally adrift or spiritually mired. The term implies stagnation or even depression.
Failing at Lent
Continued below.
Feeling the Lenten doldrums? It's all part of the plan
Sailors had to rely on the current to get out of the ‘doldrums,’ a windless area of the world’s oceans. When faced with the Lenten doldrums, we too must accept that we’re at the mercy of God’s grace.
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