It won’t have escaped your attention that we are more than half way through the Christian season of Lent; the 40 days when Christians are called to reflect on their faith in prayer, be charitable and undertake penance by fasting, or “giving up for Lent” as we commonly say.

Lent is observed by many, including those who don’t consider themselves practicing Christians, as a time of “giving up”, cutting out consumption of what is pleasurable but maybe not all that healthy for body or soul. Alcohol, deserts, cream cakes and sweets (especially chocolate) are the traditional favourites, joined in recent years by media consumption, especially social media. None of these do us any favours in the long run but are usually fun habits. Not everybody who tries “giving up for Lent” does so for spiritual reasons but even sacrificing the ‘naughty but nice’ for reasons of physical or mental health is no bad thing.

Mind you, I know many whose resolve to “give up for Lent” buckled four weeks ago under the stress and pressures of everyday life and went the way of their ‘New Year resolutions’. I know of others who sadly cannot give anything up but struggle to get by with the bare necessities they can afford. For them the whole idea of “giving up for Lent” is a hollow joke.

But don’t worry, Lent is not just the season of ‘giving up’, it’s also the season of charity. If you cannot ‘give up’ then try ‘giving more’; be more charitable. Try some of these suggested by Pope Francis:

Smile and say ‘thank you’ (even if you don’t have to). Remind others, especially in our families, how much we love them and call on them more often. Listen to other people’s stories without prejudice, and with love. Stop and help anyone who needs it. Raise the spirits of people around you. Celebrate the qualities or success of others. Sort out things you no longer use, and rather than selling them give them to those in need. Be ready to help when you are needed so that others may rest. Give corrections with love, do not keep quiet out of fear. Maintain good relations with those around you. Help others overcome obstacles.

Yes, they will still test your resolve, but they won’t cost you a penny. Good luck!