For those of you that don’t know, today Lent begins. If you didn’t know that Lent started today, you may not know what Lent is. For those of you that are uninformed,  I would like to share with you.

On the Christian calendar, Lent is the 40 days leading up to Easter which is treated as a period of reflection and a time for fasting from food and festivities. It symbolizes the days leading up to Jesus’ crucifixion and subsequent resurrection.  During this time Christ spent 40 days and nights alone in the desert fasting and praying in preparation for his ministry . Lent is actually 46 days but you do not count Sundays.

The focus of the season is on spiritual growth. The focus should not be on self, but your relationship with God. Most times Christians choose to take on something during Lent, like reading more of the Bible or completing daily devotions. 

Fasting is a traditional part of Lent, but not everyone does it. Its purpose is to symbolize penance, remorse for one’s sins. This can also be done by giving up a luxury or by completing acts of charity. 

Although I give to other and do charity work all the time, yesterday really got me ready for Lent. As I prepare for the PHAT Girl Fresh presents Life Styled event, I have begin to do promotions. Yesterday I promoted the clothing drive that PHAT Girl Fresh is doing for Dress For Success Atlanta, and I was overjoyed by the love and support that women showed. Many women made donations; both financial and clothing all as a show of support for others. This is the charity that Lent is all about. Jesus gives to us unselfishly and as Christians we are charged to do the same for others.

This year I am giving up fried foods, shopping and any drink other than water. I will focus more on reading my bible and being more active in church.