What Do You Give Up for Lent, Colorado?

Lent season starts next week on Ash Wednesday, February 22. It lasts for 6 weeks. Yes, I am Catholic and do my best to give something up each year.

Do certain religions follow lent?

Protestant, Catholic, and Eastern Orthodox.

What do most people give up?

It's really about reflection and preparing for Easter. It is different for each person. I usually give up sugar. Others may give up television, caffeine, or a favorite food.

What is the purpose of lent?

It's about giving something up for those 40 days. I take the time to improve something in my life as well. Maybe a bad habit of complaining, not indulging in so much eating. It's not an easy 40 days, and it's not supposed to be. I've given up sweets, and tortillas ( I can eat nachos every day), and sodas are tough too. It can also be a great time to start something new.

I've had a few friends who are not Catholic do this with me. Most say giving up sweets is the toughest. I feel like crap for a week. But then I rid myself of it, and you trim down a bit too in those 40 days. It's also a time of discipline for me. I add giving up sugar to September each year as well.

Whether you participate in lent or not, there is always a good time to clear out the negativity and feel better. I'm going to miss those sweets!