Self-denial

Lent

Self-denial, then, is not a mask for self-contempt, but the necessary means for achieving self-mastery; and self-mastery makes possible our self-giving and self-fulfillment. Sin, according to this view, is not wanting too much, but rather settling for too little! It’s settling for self-gratification rather than self-fulfillment.

– First Comes Love, Scott Hahn