What Do You Give Up For Lent?
For Christians, today begins the period of reflection and self-denial in preparation for Easter we call Lent.
Typically it means giving up something we enjoy, kind of a test of willpower and dedication in a spiritual cleansing of the body and mind.
What do people typically give up for Lent?
Sweets
Usually it’s dessert but some people dive right in and give up anything with sugar. Now that’s dedication.
Alcohol
For a lot of people another one that takes a lot of willpower is giving up alcohol – beer, wine, liquor. Some people are lucky to get thru one weekend.
Fast Food
Burgers, tacos, pizza is probably on the list. Any restaurant with a drive-thru is fast food. Giving up fast food teaches you to slow down and cook at home.
TV
Giving up TV gives you more time for other things like projects you’ve been putting off since Lent last year or reading a good book.
Social Media or Facebook
Giving up social media gives you more time for other things, like actually visiting your Facebook friends.
Shopping
Shopping as in doing less of it. It’s mentioned mostly by women.
Finances
Lent can also be a time for doing something you usually don’t do – like getting your debts in order. You can start doing that by shopping less. Spending less than you make is always a good idea.
Sleep
Getting more sleep – spending less time on Facebook, watching less TV and doing less shopping can give you more time to sleep.
Relationships
Dedicating more of your free time for loved ones – your spouse or significant other, children, other relatives, close friends.