Lent and the Art of Self Mastery

It is that time of year - let's be honest - that dreaded time of year.  Lent.  What to give up? What to give away? What to make for dinner on Friday?

 

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I know I should look forward to Lent as a time of cleansing, a time of getting rid of bad habits or excess baggage.  But why does it seem that when something is forbidden it is so much more enticing? Human Nature I suppose.

Last year I gave up spending any money on myself except for absolute essentials - I did pretty good at it too and realized how much frivolous spending I engage in.  Well, this year I am trying to reign in some bad habits I've formed over the last few months.  Namely - snacking all the time.  ALL THE TIME!  Thus, the 7 month pregnancy weight,  Yuck!  So, I have eliminated snacking.  My boys laughed at me saying "shouldn't it be a sacrifice mom?"  If they only knew!  I spent the first 5 days of Lent just getting myself used to not snacking.  What an exercise in self-mastery!

But it's not enough.  I need to use this sacrifice for something beyond myself.  Starting now, every time I reject snacking I will offer up a prayer for someone else.  How about someone that really bugs the bejeezers out of me?

What do you give up for Lent?  or do you give anything up?  Is it a time of reflection for you or do you think Lent should be a year round call to look inward and reflect the change outwardly?