Fast: Night Before

Tonight I am beginning a 7 day fast. I have done this once before. The first time I had an excuse - I could claim ignorance. This time, I actually know what I am getting myself into and have no good excuses. I don't have a particularly ascetic nature, but every once in a while I think its good to remind oneself of what it feels like to go without. A 7 day fast is hardly Ghandiesque. But there are enough physical discomforts and mental challenges in 7 days of not chewing, that it does provide a multitude of opportunities. I think fasting is extremely personal and therefor what you get out of it is also unique to the individual.

For me, I enjoy a challenge. I enjoy a difficult task that requires mental discipline and a willingness to do what many others are not. I can't say I enjoy being hungry, but I am grateful to feel hunger sometimes because millions voluntarily fast every year out of religious devotion and expression and millions suffer from starvation and malnourishment every day. I am grateful to be able in some small way to appreciate their hunger - to not only be able to sympathize but also empathize. I love that immediately following the breaking of a fast I am so much more aware of what I have been blessed with. I enjoy what I have with immensely heightened sensitivity.

I have heard from some people that they feel voluntary fasting that is not associated with religion is insensitive and trivializes the true pain some feel who cannot change their plight. I disagree. I think voluntary fasting can be a sincere attempt to wear another man's shoes or search for self awareness. Unfortunately, like most experiences, time tends to mentally distance us from our past experiences and it is easy to become desensitized. I think I fast for many reasons but most of all it is to become re-sensitized.

So this is how the fast works for those of you with more specific curiosity. Tonight - the night before the actual beginning of the fast - my friend Eric and I enjoyed a nice cup of Senna Leaf Tea. Without getting too much into the details, it is a laxative tea that's effect is unmistakably noticed the next morning. Every morning is commenced with a delicious liter of tepid saltwater (preferably chugged so as not to fully enjoy such a wonderful flavor). Then, throughout the day we will drink two 1-liter concoctions of watered-down lime juice, a little bit of sugar, and cayenne pepper. We are also entitled to as much water as we feel is necessary to stay hydrated during this hot season. And finally, in conclusion to each day, we drink a cup of the Senna Leaf Tea to precipitate that wonderful next morning effect again.

Do that 7 times and its done. I will be posting some of my thoughts and feelings each day so if you are interested, please check in.

Here I go!