My Fast for November 6-7, 2016

November 6, 2016

I am fasting today and tomorrow about the U.S. presidential election, considering the massive amount of confusion and uncertainty that is clouding facts and kindling hatred. I recognize that the climate of fear that has surfaced as divisiveness among candidates and their followers (and all of those who are undecided) represents much bigger issues than the election of one person. 

My purpose in fasting at this time is really about decreasing violence in our communities, our country, and throughout the world. I am also working on decreasing harmful tendencies and behaviors I personally struggle with every day. 

I am not physically capable of refraining from food or water, so I am choosing to refrain from habits and communication -- including two specific behaviors  -- that I consider harmful to myself and others. 

I hope to channel my prayers, efforts, and energy in a way that they will contribute to the collective efforts of others who are seeking sources of strength beyond and within themselves at this time. I hope to join those who are committed to overcoming fear that fuels the hatred and violence currently dividing the United States, as well as many areas of the world. I hope we can transcend our need to compete, to defeat, and to be right, so we can focus on the need to understand and love each other. 

I hope to expand my mind, spirit, and heart through commitment to these actions: 

1) Seek and remain present in spaces that encourage compassion/connection, such as the mountains, my home, and the place where I play music with friends. 

2) Choose connection and compassion (over  correction, criticism, or dissociation)

3) Practice gratitude and humility by turning to personal sources of strength inside and outside of myself - especially when confronted with feelings of anger or hatred towards another. I choose to try centering practices and connection to loved ones before acting on harmful tendencies. 

What guides me?

I am in the midst of a faith crisis, but this does not mean I do not have faith. This does not mean I have forgotten how much I rely on a source far greater than myself for all that sustains me. I may not know exactly who God is, but I pray constantly, knowing that this Being is more than just a father in heaven, and at the very least includes a mother . . . and possibly other influences. I know that the Source from which I receive is not limited to my own understanding, and I believe there are unseen forces guiding our choices, whether they are based in light or shadow. I also know that the very tangible problems plaguing our world today will not be addressed without people being aware of them and taking direct action to resolve them.

Participating in this fast is one way for me to channel my desires into action, and to increase my ability to be effective in the spaces I am already attempting to take action.