The season of Lent begins today, and many Christians, especially Catholics, are gearing up for 40 days of sacrifice before Easter.
The period hearkens to a time when Jesus Christ is said to have fasted in the desert for 40 days.
"Lent offers us a time to prepare and reflect on the great Easter mystery," states the Web site of the National Conference of Catholic Bishops, "that 'God so loved the world that he gave his only Son.'"
Lent lasts from Ash Wednesday through sundown Maundy Thursday, the Thursday before Easter Sunday.
Many Catholics make vows during this time to live more like Christ, which for many means giving up something they don't need smoking, for example, or sweets.
We asked a few public figures locally what they are giving up for Lent. Two members of the Hillsborough County School Board are among those who responded.
Board member Jack Lamb: "Cuban bread."
And board member Candy Olson: "I am giving up most junk food and trying to give up meanness."
What are you giving up for Lent or otherwise doing to mark the season? We'd like to know.
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