“What are you giving up for Lent?” That is the question frequently asked this time of year, as those of the Christian faith enter the 40-day period of fasting and self-examination in preparation for Easter.

Though a religious season, the six weeks of Lent and the ideas that go along with it, have become a widespread practice for other individuals as well. This period of reflection began in the fourth century and is primarily marked by the giving up of luxury foods like meat and dairy products. While Catholics fast on Ash Wednesday and on Fridays during the Lenten season, many people, religious or not, take up this increasingly popular discipline at the same time. According to several recent polls and surveys, a few of the top things people are giving up for Lent in 2016 are chocolate, social networking, alcohol, meat, sweets, coffee, and soda.

That being said, Pope Francis has asked that people reconsider the heart of their activity during Lent. He states that fasting must never become superficial, and quotes early Christian mystic John Chrysostom who says, “No act of virtue can be great if it is not followed by advantage for others… if you do no good to others, you do nothing great.”

For some, the Lenten season is seen as a time to make a change in lifestyle – a time to cut out bad habits, or modify areas of life that are flawed and in need of improvement. For others, fasting is more spiritual and sacred, and something that can change hearts and bring people closer to Jesus. However one chooses to view this special occasion, it is important to remember that Lent does not only signify giving things up, but also the importance of giving. Many people simply give more of their time to serving others during the season of Lent. It may not sound like much, but even just taking a couple hours or minutes to benefit someone else can make a dramatic difference in their day, while projecting love and care into the community. Others also act generously by donating money or goods to certain organizations, like Catholic Relief Services, the faith-in-action program in charge of the Rice Bowl. Overall, though Lent can be observed in numerous ways, the season ultimately centers around solemnity, renewal, and rejuvenation.