I'm a little afraid of this journey with Jesus. I know my path isn't even close to that of Jesus. Won't this practice discourage me even more?

Hope not! You should already be encouraged, because you've encountered two important themes of your life journey: gift and responsibility. When Jesus says, "Come, follow me," it is always in a spirit of friendship, love and growth. He never uses intimidation and fear. Perhaps you hesitate because of the responsibility required by this gift. Saying yes to the journey with Jesus calls for actions that aren't easy. But you aren't asked to act alone. Jesus will always send you the help you need to continue walking with him.

Is it really possible that my life can be like that of Jesus? This seems like a big stretch to me.

But life is about stretching! Lent is a time when we see the human side of Jesus. He was truly tested—and tempted to turn away from the will of God—yet he remained faithful. His example can help you in this "stretch" of Lent. You are not to admire Jesus from afar; you are to follow him. He did human things well, and you can act as Jesus did in your own life. How? Ask him! Believe me, you will find answers.

Aren't I a bit young to be looking back already?

Are you too young to think about your future? This looking back is to get you ready for that future. You've changed physically, socially and spiritually in the last year or two. Your relationship with Jesus has changed as well. You need to look at that—often. This can be an affirming look, but you might be called to make changes in your attitudes and behavior. If you wait your whole life to look back, you won't have time to change ways in which you are not following Jesus' example.