There are many perks to being an Orthodox Christian. Besides all the perks Jesus provides, I also get to start my Lent pretty late. Relative to the Catholics. To be completely honest, I’ve never participated in Lent before. Partially because I wasn’t too invested in my faith, and also because Orthodox fasting is extremely demanding. Most Orthodox Lebanese will live off of pita and za’atar for forty days. It’s far from appealing to me. But that’s the whole point; and since I’m new to this, I’ve decided to make it a little easier for myself.
I’ve decided to do the classic, no meat on Wednesdays and Fridays. This seems pretty easy in theory, but I’m worried that I’ll find myself munching on a Chipotle bowl without realizing. So, to prevent any issues down the road, I’ve set the reminders for each day. I will say, this will be a pain when I have to cook meals with meat for my father and brother. I don’t know if Jesus will be mad if I do a little taste test. But if I serve overcooked chicken, I’ll never hear the end of it.
I’ve also decided to give up all sugar and desserts. Artificial sugars, really. I don’t count strawberries as dessert. Should I? Eh, I’ll figure it out. This is probably going to be the most difficult one to follow. No little sweet treats. None. Not even during finals. I’m not sure how I’ll manage (I say, as Jesus literally went forty days and nights eating nothing).
I also made a promise to myself to go to Church every Sunday during Lent. I’ve had a good track record the past few months, but I’m hoping I’ll really stay on it even after Lent. The only difficult thing about this is finding a decent outfit every Sunday. My Church certainly isn’t a “come as you are” church. I don’t mind this; I think we should always present ourselves in the best way for God. But it is so difficult trying to find modest clothing without looking like a grandma. As soon as I start layering, I begin to resemble my teita. I guess this does give me an excuse to go shopping more (which is a huge plus).
I’m really excited for Lent. I know that I’m not doing what I’m supposed to be doing, that is, abstaining from alcohol, eggs, dairy, fish, meat, and olive oil. People in Lebanon go so hard for Lent, that if they read my plans, they would think I’m the weak link. I don’t even blame them; my cousins will be at Church almost every day, abstain from nearly all the things I mentioned above, and stick to spiritual music and entertainment. Orthodox Christians in Lebanon are simply a different breed. It’s inspiring, and I hope I could get the strength to do half of what they do.
When my brother Joey was younger, he would try his very best to fast. It was adorable; he didn’t exactly know why he was doing it, but because my mother encouraged it, he lived off of za’atar for forty days. And, if eight year-old Joey could do it, then I probably could too.
To my Orthodox brothers and sisters, I wish you a blessed Lent!
