Lent... do you observe it?

So, today is Ash Wednesday... which is the 1st day of Lent for those who observe it. I was raised Catholic, but don't really consider myself a Catholic these days. I never wanted to be confirmed. If anything... the closest religion I come to following would be Unitarian Universalism. To me, it's much more about being an overall decent human being, having respect for yourself and others, and having a personal relationship with whatever you feel your higher power or God is for you.

That said, I do still observe some portions of Catholicism. Lent, being one of them. So, for 40 days you give up something. Something good that you dont want to give up. Or something that you know is an issue or will pose a challenge for you. So, this year... I'm going to give up negativity of any sort. No complaining, no bad mouthing people or things, no negative speech or action. Nada. I want to completely focus on the positive aspects of EVERYTHING. In general, I try to be a pretty positive person anyway. There's not a whole lot of negativity going on here, lol. (Of course, I AM only human. We all have days where we KNOW we are a complete and utter wench, right?) But I want to really make a conscious effort to wipe it ALL away for the next 40 days.

So.... here goes! :) And please feel free to call me out if you ever catch me being a Negative Nancy. Im sure there are times where I won't realize it. You have full permission to bring it to my attention so I knock myself back in line! haha!

What about you guys? Do you observe Lent? If so, what are you giving up? Or what have you given up in the past that's been difficult? How did you feel after?

Hope you're all having a fabulous day!!

xoxo!
Julie :)