RICEless No more

Fasting is primarily the act of willingly abstaining from some or all food, drink, or both, for a period of time. Normally, the act of fasting is done by us, Catholics, during lenten season in order to afflict the soul through abstaining from fulfilling the needs or wants of the flesh. But during the 2004 SHOUT, I came across a new concept of fasting - and that is for a cause.

Fasting for a cause basically deals with the idea of giving up something in order to have or achieve something. The 'something' you give up can be an act, a thing, i.e. foods and drinks, a hobby (or a vice?), or anything you can think of - something practical and realistic. This 'something' is the object of fasting. On the other hand, the 'something' you want to have or achieve is the cause of your fasting. It can be anything that you are looking forward to i.e. an event, a thing, an endeavor, health or healing for someone.

The idea is quite easy. BUT, believe you me, doing it is kind of difficult and straining.

The catch: the object of your fasting should not be something of less impotance to you. It should be something within your comfort zone, something that is part of your system, or someting you have been used to doing or having. Why is it so? It is because of the principle that if you want something, you need to pay a just 'price' for it; and if you really, really want that something, you need to pay a higher price for it. In short, the more important it is to you or the more difficult it is for you to give up, the better - the more effective it will be for your cause.

BUT then again, it doesn't stop there.

Fasting alone is not enough. You have to PRAY while fasting since the latter will be of no use in the absence of former. As for me, I prayed as often as possible for the cause that I am fasting for, much more if I am tempted (praying for my cause during regular riceless meals). As such, not only that I have stormed heaven's gates with prayers for the cause of my fasting, but I have also built a more intimate relationship with my God.

And now that half of my prayers (causes) have been positively answered, I can attest to the power and efficacy of fasting for a cause. Such an act has not just been something that you can do for that 'something' you are praying for, but it can also become a great way to build personal relationship with Him.

I know it's easier said than done but don't just take my word - try it yourself.


Maktub!