Today is Ash Wednesday. Today is the beginning of Lent. The word \”lent\” comes from the Anglo-Saxon word for \”spring.\” Just as spring is the season for new and expanded life, Lent is a time for spiritual rebirth and renewal. I am consciously choosing to \”fast\” from negative thoughts or behaviors—to turn from the simple act of giving up things to a more positive commitment to take up the practice of higher-level thinking, rising up to a higher level of being; renewed, restored, rejuvenated, reborn. Rising Up.