Every year around this time for as long as I can remember, I have given up refined sugar. It is the way I celebrate Lent, but it is also a chance for me to reset, and I actually look forward to it after the indulgences of the holidays.⁠

When our kids were younger, I would ask them, “What do you want to give up for Lent?”, and they would present me with an inventory of possibilities - homework, chores, and lima beans (which was not quite the spirit I was looking for).⁠

A few years ago, a friend told me that instead of giving up something for Lent, she wanted to give out something for Lent. She was going to perform a random act of kindness every day, anonymously. What? No credit? But it made me think.⁠

There is so much that we can do differently to improve not only our health, but our relationships and the world around us. ⁠

How about 40 days without gossiping or swearing or social media or complaining or nonessential shopping?⁠

Or 40 days of exercising or reading or meditating or organizing or complimenting our spouse and our children?⁠

I give up sugar so that it makes me focus more on my religious convictions, and it works. But I also give it up so that I eat healthier - it’s a win / win.⁠

But whether for religious reasons or not, changing the way we live for a set period of time can be liberating and entertaining and challenging, and although I always find my way back to sugar, always, those forty days without it is empowering.⁠

So long for now, my sweet friend - see you soon.⁠