Easter Sunday has come and gone, and that means many who gave up something for Lent are basking in the glow of finally having that something back, whatever it might be.
Ohio University students who worship in various Christian faiths often give up something that they’ve grown accustomed to for Lent, the six-week period before Easter.
Most people give up things such as sweets, social media or junk food. Yet Ethan Marstella, a junior studying education and a community group leader with Cru, gave up something unconventional: reading.
He still reads assigned pieces for his classes but stopped reading for pleasure during this Lenten season. He used the extra time to read more of the Bible and other religious literature.
“I do a lot of reading in my free time when I actually have free time,” Marstella said. “I wanted to take this time to dedicate to my spiritual life and Christ.”
Of the four hours Marstella generally uses to read young adult fantasy or American classic books, he now uses part of that time to read scripture.
“Since it’s not a harmful or bad thing I gave up, I’ll try to keep that (amount of time reading religious pieces) fairly consistent,” Marstella said.
Some students decided not to give up anything this Lent, instead taking the time to consider their attitudes and beliefs.
Kaelyn Naim, a junior studying Spanish, believes Lent is not just about changing actions, but also thoughts.
“Lent is about more than just an attitude of reverence for Easter,” Naim said. “It’s about being respectful.”
Naim has given up things in the past, however, and most of these have been related to things that take up her time.
“You get used to not having it,” Naim said. “I had a lot more time on my hands.”
This Lenten season, Naim concentrated on what Easter really means in the Christian tradition. Instead of thinking about bunnies and bright plastic eggs, Naim thought about the sacrifices associated with the holiday.
“I don’t only think of the sacrifices that God gave with Jesus, but what Jesus gave for us,” Naim said. “He gave his life.”
Students of Christian faith believe that giving up isn’t always a loss, but sometimes it can be a great gain of spiritual awareness. Students like Marstella also believe it doesn’t have to be limited to a six-week time frame.
“I think Lent is a great time to reflect upon your relationship with Christ. I wish more people would focus on that other times than just Lent,” Marstella said.
@TIFFANYTOUVILLE
TT315212@ohiou.edu
Sacrifices (Tweets)
School 11,330
Chocolate 8,916
Twitter 8,171
Swearing 6,733
Alcohol 5,820
Soda 5,087
Social networking 4,087
Sweets 3,860
Fast food 3,830
Homework 2,687
Source: The Washington Post
