Lent 2014

Can this be in my Easter basket? 

What are you giving up for Lent?

Growing up Southern Baptist, Lent was one of those things that some people did and some people didn't. I don't really remember it being talked about in church all that often. It wasn't really until I went to college where I saw how this old church tradition crossed denominations, ages, and roles. While I've never had the privileged of participating in a Lent service at a church, seeing my friends proudly walk through campus with the cross of ashes on their foreheads was quiet inspiring.

So what are you giving up for Lent? And what are you going to start doing, giving, serving? I know one time in high school, I gave up Diet Coke. While it may not sound like a lot, for me it was a really big deal. I still remember the sweet sting of that first sip from a Sonic Route 44 after 40 days without my beloved beverage!

This year, I'm giving up sweets. This is going to be so hard, and really no fun. But its something that has always had strong grips in my life. It's cute to joke about a "sweet tooth," but it's not so cute when it starts to affect your body physically. I hope that this refocus on health during Lent will motivate me to continue with my Year of Change and making myself better, happier, and stronger. But I still can't wait to have something yummy on April 17.

I haven't decided what I'm going to do yet. I want to do something that will give back to others, and inspire them for the day. So the question remains...

What are you giving up for Lent?