No, I don’t have dirt on my forehead; those are ashes. But thanks for looking out for me anyway, total stranger.

We’ve reached the time of year again when people attempt to stay off social media, stray away from those sweet desserts or vow to go to church every Sunday. Yes folks, Lent has arrived.

Lent, on top of making a sacrifice, is meant to be a time of reflection. Growing up, I hated these 40 days because it meant giving up something that I wanted, or thought I wanted, on a daily basis. What I really failed to look at was the reflection aspect.

Being in college, we grow to be more independent of the ideas that our parents put in our heads the 18 or more years that we lived at home. Many times, this includes religious beliefs that become an essential part of who we are.

Time in college should not go wasted. By this I mean these four years are the time for you to ask questions about your career, your morals, values or even your faith. College courses are often meant to expose students to new ideas and knowledge that they might not have otherwise had so why not broaden your mind in different areas too?

Now, being in college, I am always looking back at what I have done and question the impact that it has on my future. But that’s outside of just what I want my major to be; it often includes what moral standards I hold myself to as well as what I want from my life.

My mom always told me something that made me see Lent in a different light: instead of giving something up, add something to your life during this time that makes you reflect more on your faith.

If you’re still unsure about what to give up for Lent, try taking this time to think about what really matters to you in your faith. Instead of moping about not drinking your favorite diet soda, take time each day to examine what your faith is and if it really aligns with your ways of thinking.