Lent, anyone? (Bulletin Cross-Post)

This was originally a bulletin, but I have decided to also post its contents here because of how long it is, and because I feel this could be an interesting point of conversation for this group. The beginning paragraph of the bulletin has been omitted, as it is not relevant to this setting, with the exception of pointing out that Ash Wednesday is on the 18th of February.

Starting yesterday I've tried to think up a short list of things I can fast from during that time besides the typical abstinence from chocolate, sweets, added sugars etc. (with the exception of birthdays, then I will eat a slice of cake for politeness' sake and to partake in the festivities), and I reckon YouTube will be part of it, but the main one that I'm definitely going to be fasting from is... listening to music.

I listen to music a lot... to a fault, even. What often happens, at least when it comes to me, is I start imagining scenes in my head, which then leads to me hugely procrastinating on things, whether it's study, drawing, working on my personal website (or even thinking up a new SpaceHey layout I like), or deliberately missing real-life opportunities to hang out with people. I'm definitely going to be trying to cut back on what is effectively an addiction to this in these last two weeks leading up to Ash Wednesday, so once Lent is over I can be more mindful with how I consume music and when, but I do think it'll definitely do me some good to quit cold turkey for a while.

So what's that going to look like (the Lenten fasting, I mean)? The rules I'm going to set for myself are as follows, or at least they are so far:

1. I am not allowed to turn on any music myself - this includes watching videos with the express purpose of hearing the music. If possible, turn off the music in videogames and avoid YouTube altogether.
2. I have to avoid wearing headphones as much as possible. I tend to mute devices when headphones aren't plugged in or otherwise connected, so realistically I should only put them on if I'm either in a video call with someone or if I'm playing a videogame that includes audio as part of the essential experience e.g. listening for enemy sounds. I'm going to try to stay away from videogames where the music absolutely cannot be turned off.
3. I am allowed to listen to music turned on by other people if it is unavoidable. Just because I can't turn on music, it doesn't mean other people can't. For example, I am allowed to listen to whatever passengers in my car decide to listen to, whether it be a CD or a radio station. I also do not need to plug my ears each time I sing in the choir at Mass, or when someone's phone starts ringing (including my own).
4. I am allowed to play the piano. I cannot, however, play any preset songs on any electronic pianos or keyboards.
5. If someone sends me a video meme, I am allowed to watch it once if it includes music for politeness' sake. Any subsequent rewatches must be muted if music is involved.

Chances are I'll end up thinking of some other clause I missed out closer to Ash Wednesday, but that's what my main fast of Lent will be. As for what I'll be offering up this sacrifice for... that one's still undecided, but I think I'll keep whatever intention I decide on private anyway. This may change, of course - we still have two weeks, after all.

So... what are other peoples' planned fasts, if you have any in mind? I'm curious to hear what other people are doing. But even if you don't reply, I pray that God helps you stick to your Lenten fasts, and that He uses your sacrifice for good. God bless!!