Lent: the time of the year for fasting, almsgiving, and reflection of our faith. Lent is the solemn religious observance in the liturgical calendar that starts on Ash Wednesday and ends before Easter Sunday. This is the time of year that people often give up certain things in their life that they hold dear (coffee, music, television, social media, etc.) in order to have more time for prayer and reflection. People often become concerned with doing without certain things that they neglect to do something extra for God. Although the practice of giving up comforts for Lent is a great one, there are certain things that I would never give up! Here are a list of 40 things I would never give up for Lent:
1. My family time
2. My bible study group
3. My schooling and homework
4. Quality time spent building virtuous friendships
5. Daily Mass
6. The Blessed Sacrament
7. A positive attitude
8. Random acts of kindness
9. A smile to a stranger
10. Manners (please and thank you)
11. Compassion towards others
12. Community service and involvement
13. A listening ear
14. A nod of understanding
15. A door held open for someone with a lot in their hands
16. Laughs with friends and family members
17. Listening to understand and not to respond
18. Dinner time with my roommates
19. Uninterrupted study time
20. Time for sisterhood with my sorority
21. A chance to make a difference
22. Positivity in hopeless situations
23. Standing up for what is right
24. A desire to put your all into everything that you do
25. A desire to change the world
26. A shoulder to cry on
27. Spreading joy
28. Promoting peace and harmony
29. An opportunity to do something great
30. Defending what I believe in
31. An empathetic mind
32. My Bible
33. Deep breaths
34. Hugs
35. Good deeds
36. Swallowing my pride
37. Reflective silences
38. Tears of Joy
39. Trust in the Lord's plan for me
40. An ever-growing and deepening relationship with God
These are things that should never be given up for Lent! Lent is a time to seek God and deepen your relationship with Him. During the 40 days of Lent, challenge yourself to do one kind act per day. Step out of your comfort and convenience zone and allow God to work in your life in a new way. Lent should not be viewed as a punishment or doing without something, but as a great opportunity for spiritual growth and maturation. I hope everyone's Lent is prayerful and reflective. May virtuous friendships be formed and loved ones held close.
"Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer".
- Romans 12:12
