Second Sabbath

Last Saturday was the second Sabbath of 2017. This sunset to sunset fast was more challenging than the last. With social activities on Friday evening and again on Saturday afternoon, I found that my participation in those activities involved stepping back from a few things. However, the most significant of them involved abstaining from alcohol. I found that not eating seemed easy by comparison. The first was a private concert of Irish folk and modern music, where the Guinness flowed freely. Yet, I drank only water. The other was a wake, where we remembered a wonderful man, husband, father, and friend; few noticed that I was not eating or drinking from the abundant offering. In both cases, this fast provided a new context for fellowship. I enjoyed the concert just the same and I grieved our loss without remorse for food or wine left unattended. At both events, I engaged friends and family with clarity and joy. What more can you ask for?