Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of the season of Lent. During this 40-day period of repentance and fasting, it is a custom to give something up.

When I was younger I never quite understood the true meaning of Lent. I would always give up candy to be rewarded on Easter morning with a decadent basket of candy. Now that I am older, I am able to understand what Lent is truly about. Giving something up is more than an annual penance.  “The “giving up” serves as a reminder of Christ’s ultimate sacrifice on the cross.

The question on what to give up is entirely up to you. Before you decide what to give up, however, it’s important to sit down and reflect on things in your life that have taken over.

Often times people give up an object, such as food or electronics, but you don’t always have to give something up that is physical. Mentally, you can give up an attitude or a certain way you live in order to bring yourself closer to God.

Adding a daily routine to your life is also a good way to prepare for the resurrection. Praying persistently throughout the day or improving your spirit of giving are also all examples of this cleansing.

The important thing is to focus each day on living up to your Lenten commitment and take hope that you made it through another day staying true to this commitment.

Use the poll below to help you come up with the best Lenten  promise you can make to yourself and to God for Lent.

What are you doing for Lent?

• Giving up a certain food
• Getting rid of a habit
• Praying more
• Paying more attention during the homily
• Being nicer
• Cleaner language
• Taking better care of my body (diet/exercise)
• Rice bowl
• Volunteering more
• Other

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