Lent? | What is Lent? | Why do Catholics observe Lent?

As a Catholic I get many questions from non Catholics such as What is Lent? Why Lent? I do not understand why Catholics observe Lent?  Hopefully this post will clear some of your questions up and explain why "Lent."

"Lent" is simple and easy to answer, it is 40 day season leading up to Easter.  The reason Catholics observe it is because we want to imitate Christ who became close to the Father in the desert by praying and fasting.   Lent is sacred to us because it is a time to take a deeper look into our faith spiritually, emotionally and physically. 

During Lent we have 3 pillars; giving, prayer and fasting.  We reflect often these pillars but, especially during Lent. 

We give up certain activities, luxuries, lifestyle, foods, beverages to be replaced by giving the money we save on top of what we give, pray and of course fast on Ash Wednesday and Good Fridays.  On all other Friday we do not eat meat of any kind, some believe the money we spend on meat is to be given.