As spring season approaches, many students at Greeley West High School are marking their beginning of the Lenten season with reflection, faith, and commitment to personal tasks. Today, February 18th, Ash Wednesday is a holy day observed around the world signaling the start of Lent, a 40-day period of prayer, fasting, and preparation leading up to Easter.

With the large Catholic population at Greeley West High School, Ash Wednesday holds special meaning for many students and staff. Today, believers often attend church services and prayers where ashes are placed on foreheads in the shape of a cross to show the pillars within Lent as this season begins.

For social studies and economics teacher Mr. Jorge Cabral, Lent is not just about giving something up but about becoming better. This year, Cabral shared that he is fasting and unwinding as he is “trying to become a better person and be kind every day.”

Alongside that, Cabral will also be stepping away from social media. Instead of scrolling, he shared his want: “to reflect and be mindful with his thoughts.” T

his season is more about improving yourself a little bit each day.

As for the students, junior Bryan Corral is also using this season as a time for growth. Rather than giving up a snack or bad habit, Corral is growing his faith. “For Lent this year I am going to read the Bible more every day,” Corral said.

Taking another step in their religion, junior Ulises Sanchez plans on “praying the rosary every Friday.”

This season is about the sacrifices taken to become who you hope to be.  Ash Wednesday reminds students that Lent is not simply about sacrifice but about renewal and reflection. Whether through fasting, prayer, or acts of kindness, Greeley West is using this time to reset and welcome the new spring beginnings.