Fasting
What it usually means: To eat not at all, sparingly, or only particular foods
What it means to Orthodox people: Checking the calendar before deciding what to have for lunch
Lent
What it usually means: Picking something to “give up” before Easter
What it means to Orthodox people: PB&J sandwiches for 40 days
Chanting
What it usually means: A monotonous repeated sound
What it means to Orthodox people: The most beautiful song of voices joining together in prayer
An Hour
What it usually means: A 60 minute measurement of time
What it means to Orthodox people: A relatively short church service
Many Years
What it usually means: For a long time
What it means to Orthodox people: Hooray! Congratulations!
Easter
What it usually means: Egg hunts and chocolate bunnies
What it means to Orthodox people: The feast of feasts. Also, having to explain why you’re celebrating Easter a month later than everyone. Church in the middle of the night. And food, lots of food.
Maxi Skirt
What it usually means: A long skirt perfect for summer or the beach
What it means to Orthodox people: What you wear to a monastery