The last chocolate eggs have been found, the Easter Bunny has delivered the last basket and the spring flowers are in full bloom. Easter has come and gone, and so has the holy season of Lent.
Beginning on Ash Wednesday and lasting until Easter Sunday, Lent is traditionally observed by those of Christian faith as a time to prepare their hearts through prayer and charity. Some choose to give up a temptation, like junk food or social media, while others commit to engaging in something positive, such as daily acts of kindness or volunteering.
“I gave up soda and cursing, as well as saying the word ‘hate,’” said senior Roberto Garcia. “I’ve been meaning to drink less soda because it’s not the best for you, and the other two were just bad habits.”
According to a study conducted by Lifeway Research, only about 24% of Americans participate in Lent. From those, about half give up junk food or beverages. However, of the few Loy Norrix students who participated, the most popular sacrifice was social media.
“I tried to use my phone a lot less,” said senior Joselyn Juarez. “I would try my best to only use my phone if I really had to.”
Lent isn’t about being perfect, it’s about making an honest effort to grow. Staying true to your Lenten commitment is not always easy, especially if you give up something very incorporated into your daily life.
“The most challenging part was not cursing, regrettably,” Garcia said. “A couple of days into Lent, I realized how much I curse in everyday life. It was eye-opening for me, and I’m working on it.”
Staying true to one’s sacrifices for the entirety of the forty days often presents challenges. Both Juarez and Garcia say that to them, Lent is also about forgiveness and developing your faith and relationship with God. Reflecting on the purpose and meaning of Lent is a common practice to reinforce commitment and motivation.
“Usually, when I would find myself doubting,” Garcia said, “I would think about how there were no breaks for Jesus. When I accidentally curse, even if I was just by myself, I would apologize to myself and Jesus.”
As Lent came to a close with holy week, students expressed a deeper sense of self-awareness and connection to their faith. Juarez’s connection with God improved over the few years she’s been participating.
“I’ve noticed that I have a stronger relationship with God,” said Juarez. “I’ve been talking to him more than I used to, and I know that I can do it with him by my side. I feel more confident about doing different things because I know He will always be with me.”
