Lent

This week I am "exploring" the tradition and purpose of Lent. A few years ago, Jordi and I decided to do Lent, more as a game than anything else - Could we really go for 4o days without desert??

Now I look forward to Lent as a time that forces me out of my completely indulgent lifestyle, and I appreciate the opportunity to give something up and become more thoughtful in that area. Isn't it interesting that you never think about something as much as when you can't have it? 

This year Jordi gave up coffee, which completely blew me away because he drinks it ALL the time and absolutely loves it. So far he has been perfectly faithful and very much looking forward to Easter. I gave up the three C's - cookies, cakes, and candy (which, essentially is desert). The other day I was fully planning on taking a handful of M&M's when I realized I wasn't allowed to. More than deprived, I felt checked - I had to think about it and not do it, instead of doing it without thinking!

I think Lent means different things to different people. As I read about it a bit, I found it can mean a time of repentance and self-deprivation before the joy and feasting of Easter. It can also be a reflection of the 40 days that Jesus spent fasting in the wilderness. It can be a time to give up a vice and practice discipline, or a time to give up something you love in order to enjoy it all the more on Easter. What does it mean to you? Why have you decided to observe Lent? What did you give up and why did you chose that? Have you learned anything from the experience so far? Do you like Lent, or dread it? Please respond!! :)