Jackson Free Press

The time of year between Ash Wednesday and Easter is traditionally known as Lent. Christians use it as a time to reflect and prepare for the resurrection of Jesus. Non-religious folk use these 40 days to feel a little more holy and make up for the New Year's resolutions they've already forgotten. Whether you are of the holy persuasion or a glutton for punishment, it isn't too late to get on the bandwagon. Here are some suggestions:

Fasting
The weekdays of Lent are fast days, meaning people traditionally reduce the amount of food and drink they consume or give up a food all together. Usually people give up things like dessert, coffee or alcohol. I once gave up my two-bagel-a-day habit. But those are all clichés. For a more original kind of fast, consider giving up a non-food item like whining, hitting the snooze on your alarm or dancing on tables.

Mass
Lent is a good time to add a weekday Mass to your usual observance, but for those of us who are not Catholic, the word "mass" means something more like "all you can handle." I propose taking one day a week to binge on something as a counter to the fasting you're already doing.

Stations of the Cross
Each Wednesday during Lent at 7 p.m., followers use specific stations at church to help understand the crucifixion of Jesus. If you cannot be present with the parish for stations or if you aren't religious, you can contemplate your spirituality by burning sage, going to yoga classes and watching an "It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia" marathon.

Spiritual Reading
It is customary to select a spiritual book for regular reading during Lent. This can be a book of scripture, one of the classics or Facebook statuses.

Confession
Confession at the beginning and end of Lent is not only an opportunity for a thorough self-examination, but also makes you feel better about eating Moon Pies even though you were supposed to give them up.

Service
In addition to giving things up during Lent, some wish to take on some special service, such as visiting the sick, volunteering at a non-profit or washing cars in bikinis for charity. You could also help old ladies cross the street, tear down "crack houses" with your trusty sledgehammer or just be more coachable.