Lent begins on Ash Wednesday and continues for 40 days, excluding Sundays, ending on April 2. The season is recognized by many Christians as a time for prayer, fasting, almsgiving, and personal reflection in preparation for Easter.

Several students are observing Lent this year by making personal sacrifices and setting spiritual goals. 

Max Wellgaiser chose to give up music, saying it has become a distraction in daily life. “I listened to a lot of music and it can be distracting,” the student said. “It isn’t something that I have given up before. It’s going to be very hard for me to give it up, but I think I can make it all in 40 days.”

Others are adding positive habits instead of giving something up. Sarahi Thang reported committing to daily prayer and reflection. “I’m doing five minutes of silent prayer in the morning and a gratitude journal at night,” Sarahi Thang continued saying “My prayer life needs revival. It’s going to be hard for me, but I’ll try every day.”

Below are a few anonymous responses: 

Social media is another common sacrifice this season. “Social media can be addicting,” they say. “It’s not something I’ve given up before. It’s going to be hard, but I like a challenge and I think I can make it all 40 days.”

Another person said. “Pinterest and games, I spend a lot of time using these and need a break from it. They continued saying, “every year I tried to switch it up, this isnt something Ive given up before, and I can make it all 40 days.”

Food and drink sacrifices are also popular. One of them is giving up both meat and soda. “I am a big meat eater and I love drinking pop,” they said. “I’ve given it up before, its still going to be hard, but I can make it all 40 days.”

Another person said “My biggest sacrifice this year is caffeine,” they said.

“I love coffee and diet coke, but I should reduce my caffeine intake. I’ve given it up before, so l know it will be hard, but I plan to make it all 40 days.”

Together, these sacrifices reflect how individuals observe Lent in different ways through discipline, reflection, and personal challenge.