Today (well, yesterday by the time this posts) is the start of lent – Ash Wednesday.

Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of a short time aimed at forgoing pleasure and comforts to commemorate Jesus’s 40 days in the desert. For me, the 40 days of Lent is one of the most beautiful times of the year. Lent technically begins in winter, when things are still dormant, and the weather is often gloomy. Many things are in bloom by the end of Lent, and there are often more sun-filled days.

Lent is a time of sacrifice and sorrow. For those of us who are religious, it is a time that we commemorate Jesus’ life leading up to his crucifixion. It’s the time of the year when we are called to dive deeper into our prayer life, service to others, and abstain from those things that prevent us from growing closer to our Lord and being a good and virtuous person.

The number 40 is crucial, not only because it is the number of days Jesus spent in the desert, but during Lent, it is the number of days we need (have) to atone ourselves. I believe that 40 days is also the minimum time it takes to break the bonds of bad habits and form new better habits. Giving something up for a short time is an excellent way to build willpower and self-control.

One of the things I enjoy about Lent is that you don’t have to be religious to partake. It is the time of year anyone can use to help make themselves better. There was a time in my twenties when I would describe myself as religious neutral – I believed in God but did see that organized religion fit into my life. Even during this time, I took advantage of the Lenten season to rebuild myself. Today it is the opposite; religion and going to church are a big part of my life.

While many (especially those who are religious) focus on the three pillars of lent – prayers, fasting, and almsgiving – during this time. I tend to focus on what I can do to lead a more virtuous and happy life. I also found that I always have to deal with a difficult or sorrowful situation during Lent. In past years, it has been the loss of a loved one, a health issue, or transitioning from one place to another.

Lent is so much more than just giving up desert and being miserable about the whole time. It’s about growing closer to God and becoming a better person all around.

Lent this year start with getting bad news. This year, part of my Lenten journey will be working through the emotions attached to that news. I also want to focus on getting things done I need to and continue to get back into shape. One of my goals is to walk/run for at least 40 minutes every day.

I hope these next 40 days are one of growth and blooming.