fasting for darfur
As noted in an earlier post on this blog, on the 26 of Sivan 5769 (corresponding to June 17–18, 2009) I fasted to call attention to the continuing genocide in Darfur. One of my regular readers shared a comment here. That column was cross-posted at the blog of the Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism and at The Jew and the Carrot. While there was no comment at the RAC blog, some significant comments appeared at the jCarrot. I was questioned at the jCarrot as to why I was fasting for Darfur, but not, as an example, on behalf of those in the Democratic Republic of Congo, or the Palestinians suffering under Israeli blockade in Gaza.
fasting for gaza
When colleagues organized a fast for Gaza to occur monthly, I was among the first to sign up. Another fast day is due soon: Wednesday, 29th of Av, 5769 / August 19, 2009.
fasting for change
I know that nothing I did caused any change in the situations in Darfur or Gaza directly. I have, however performed a small role in raising consciousness.
fasts of the jewish people
A few days ago I was asked to write a 300-word piece for my local CSA newsletter. As chance would have it, our next pick-up day coincided with Tisha b’Av. I wrote about fasting and receiving food. With a little encouragement and editing, I also shared those thoughts on the jCarrot. And, once again, on the jCarrot there appeared comments. However, this time, the initial comments angrily asked why a Jew would be fasting for Gaza.
It is hard to make people happy when you are busy raising consciousness.
standing fast
We all eat. Some of us are able to continue for longer than others without food. Some of us are unable to fast. If you do fast, why do, or would you fast? What are your reasons?
- spiritual
- political
- halachic
- health oriented
For what reasons/purposes would you not fast?
- spiritual
- political
- halachic
- health oriented
There are likely reasons I have not mentioned.
Please share your thoughts here, or continue the discussion at the jCarrot.
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