Today is Ash Wednesday, which marks the first day of Lent in the Christian liturgical year.

A common practice in Lent is to either fast or give up a luxury as a form of penitence until Easter Sunday.

Patch asked Douglaston residents and community leaders what they planned to give up this year.

Here are some of their responses:

Jerry Iannece, Chairman of Community Board 11

“Red meat. I’ve done it before. You have to give up something.”

Eliott Socci, President of Douglaston Civic Association

“I should give up the civic association for Lent.”

Liliana De Jesus, Calendar Editor for Douglaston Patch

“Two years ago, I gave up all foods that came from or had ingredients that came from animals and followed a vegan diet. I am giving up soda this year.”

Vince Tabone

I give up meat on Fridays, which is, after all, a minimum requirement and then I’ll try to do something positive as opposed to giving something up that would still be a "sacrifice." I am behind the eight ball this year because I haven't figured out what that is yet. 

Judy Vincent, Douglaston Patch’s Parent Talk council

“I am Jewish, but I plan on reducing carbs. It was my New Year’s resolution.”

We’d love to hear from our readers. Are you giving up anything this year?

Answers can be serious or humorous. Please post your comments in the section below.