Lent - as much about renewal and embracing as it is sacrifice

The Strib

It's a month since Ash Wednesday began the solemn season, and two weeks till Good Friday, the darkest day on the Christian calendar.
It's Lent, a time when Christians quiet down, hunker down, give something up or take something on. Hardly a time to relish, right?
Wrong.
Across Minnesota, Roman Catholics and Protestants from the traditions that observe Lent are embracing the season. In this overscheduled, uncertain age, Lent brings far more blessings than duties, many say.