In hope of drawing closer to God, I will observe a traditional Lenten fast this year, abstaining from meat and dairy products, eating fruit, vegetables, whole grain breads, beans, and nuts, and drinking only water. Since Sundays do not count in the 40 days, they will not be part of the fast.

You are not supposed to advertise Lenten disciplines (Mt 6.16-18), I know. But mentioning it may encourage others in their Lenten practices. Also there is a benefit in accountability — saying it publicly makes it less likely for me to give up after a week.

Since prayer and fasting go together, I will also use this version of the Prayer of St Ephraim during Lent:

O Lord and Master of my life, take from me the spirit of sloth, faintheartedness, desire for power, and idle talk. But give rather the spirit of purity, humility, patience, silence, and love to your servant. Yes, O Lord and King, grant me to see my own sin and not to judge my brother or sister, for You are blessed from all ages to all ages. Amen.