Lenten promises

When forty days drag by slower than they do at all other times of the year, when you begin to resent all of your promises and when slowly but surely you become creative with what falls under the category of “cheating,” you know it’s that time of year again. Lent has officially begun. 

What are Oles giving up this year for Lent? The usual suspects: Cage cookies, Caf desserts, soda (or pop if you are Minnesotan), swearing, chocolate, the list goes on and on. But it seems there is some type of revolution that has caused a plethora of students to cool down their social networking and withdraw from Facebook this Lenten season, which is apparent through the farewell statuses endorsing other means of communication.

Personally, I am giving up sweets, as I have every year since middle school. I can gladly say that I made it through the entire Lenten season without cheating last year, and I aspire to maintain the same level of willpower this year. 

Although technically Lent started this Wednesday, March 9, some would argue it is not too late to jump on the bandwagon. If you find yourself suddenly inspired to put yourself through a forty day long torture (or endurance program, depending on which way you look at it), do not be afraid to start now and follow through until Easter!

If forty days is a little much the “Sunday Rule” is always a good option. That is, the idea that since Sunday is the day of rest, exceptions to your Lenten promise are allowed each week on Sunday. Depending on your level of dedication and faith, you may choose to adhere to or ignore the rule. Personally, I ignore it, as I enjoy a more long-term challenge. 

So, best of luck luck to all who are embarking upon a forty day challenge of faith, temptation and longing. With a little dedication, I believe you can make it all the way to Easter Sunday.