Giving Something Up for Lent

It is that time of year again. The time where Christians prepare to celebrate the ultimate sacrifice for the salvation of man. For many, yesterday (Fat Tuesday, last day of Carnival) was the last day to get all the partying and sit out before a 40 day and 40 night time of sacrifice. This time, Lent, is a time where Catholics especially sacrifice something until Easter.

Many choose to give up their favorite candy, snack food or soda. Others choose to give up cussing or gossiping. Some even give up meat. There are many more things to give up for sure. Most of time I hear people counting down the days until Easter. Counting down the days until they can indulge in their favorite things. That people give something up only to pick it up again, to me, is kind of pointless.

Yes, part of the point is to experience even the smallest sacrifice, even if it is for a short while. For me, I think the point is not only sacrifice, but to learn that you can live (live a better live, even) without whatever it is you gave up. I think the point is to better you life.

The thing is, the bettering your life doesn't always include giving something up. It can also mean starting a good habit. Read more books. Take more walks. Read the Bible more (hey, I am talking to the Christians of the world, right?). Volunteer more. Pass on small kindnesses. How does this help with that whole sacrifice bit? Well, you are giving up part of yourself. You are giving up part of yourself to make your life or someone else's life better. Depending on what you do, you may even begin walking path even closer to God.

Whatever it is, whether you are giving something up or picking up a good habit, I challenge to take it beyond 40 Days and 40 Nights. Do it (or don't do it) for as long as you can. That will lead to a more enriched life. And I think, in some small way, that will allow you the experience that ultimate sacrifice for longer, maybe even all year long.

Last Words: I am going to read more, I recommend doing something more for yourself or someone else.