It's about past the mid-way part of the Lenten season for Catholics, which means that the Easter season will be coming sooner than we think; a celebratory season after weeks of abstinence and prayer. When it comes to reflecting on Lent, you can overlook things that can be noticeable on a normal day - but not on this occasion. However, college students, or even young adult Catholics, can be faced with several challenges during Lent which can range from temptations or apathy.
There is no big surprise that when a college environment can challenge the Catholic mindset of any young adult. It could be as casual as a huge BBQ cookout on a Friday. Whatever the challenges may be, the Lenten season has no exceptions. You aren't being challenged by your environment, but by yourself.
It's time to start thinking about how your life has been during Lent; if you are committed to do better in your prayer or personal life, possibly even both. Have you decided to give up a certain food or habit that you might have caved into? Has it been easier to remain strong throughout this season? Did you follow your word on reflecting on prayer more often? Have you decided to make these Lenten decisions permanent? Personally, I decided to abstain from profanity for Lent. I realized that it gets easier as the days go by. Also, I learned using a bad word isn't necessary in order to express your emotions, even when you accidentally stub your toe on a table. It benefits your ability to be creative with words without having to use the words that are considered to be harmful.
However, it is never too late to either begin or re-do, Lenten habits. Often times, we can get so overwhelmed with academic work and social life. Yet having a better prayer life or even getting rid of a bad habit is one step in getting closer to God. Overall, we want to understand what Christ has done for us during Lent. I've come to the realization during this Lenten season that while I can accept my past flaws from years ago, it's still one of the most difficult things for me to do. Often, we don't believe that we are worthy of God's love in our darkest hours from decisions that we regret. Lent is the perfect opportunity to take that small step to a better prayer life, which can be difficult. As time goes by, it leads you into bigger goals for a set time of 40 days. When the Easter seasons begins, it's alright to retain those small habits -like being able to eat candy again - but in moderation. Let this Lenten season become the one where you can feel yourself becoming more faithful; return to the Church if you've strayed away for too long.
