Social Encore: Resisting temptation

BY JERMEL-LYNN QUILLOPO / Special to the Star-Advertiser

Fat Tuesday and Ash Wednesday just passed, marking the beginning of Lent. For the benefit of non-Catholics, Lent is a period where Catholics fast and give up certain things as penance for 40 days and nights. Lent starts on Ash Wednesday and ends Easter Sunday.

Growing up Catholic, my family actively participated in Lent. Now that I’m in my mid-20s, I’m keeping the tradition alive. I’m not a very religious person but observing Lent has kept my tradition-cherishing grandma happy and taught me important lessons of discipline, determination and commitment.

I have given up all sorts of things during Lent, such as soda and chocolate. I asked some friends what they were going to sacrifice: some are giving up certain foods, some certain social-media sites, and still others will be forgoing escalators and elevators in favor of the stairs.

Every year, I try to give up something I consider a guilty pleasure. In retrospect, Lent also helps others who need that extra push of motivation to adhere to their New Year’s resolutions.

This year I have decided to give up on two things:

1. Extravagant spending: Everyone has to spend money. However, the only things I should be doing with my money is either saving it or paying off bills. So that means no more buying unnecessary outfits. The only shopping plan to do is the window variety at malls or maybe some online browsing.
2. Sweets: I have a really big sweet tooth but I’m hoping that giving up sweets for Lent will help me maintain my weight. I have given up chocolate alone before but sweets altogether is going to be a challenge. I guess fruit will be my best friend the next 40 days and nights.

If you are participating in Lent, what are you giving up and why? What is something you would go crazy without for 40 days? I would love to hear.

Let’s hope I don’t cave in to temptation during Lent.