Ramadan Kareem

Fasting is a ancient human ritual. It seems that through the suffering of denying ourselves food, we reap the benefits of a clearer mind. At least in theory. In practice, I got off the plane from Doha and started fasting with jet lag. Someone told me today I had lost weight, and I think I will probably lose even more in the coming month. But thats not so bad. I do wonder how I will deal with fasting in the Middle East heat? My guidebook tells me there are two times to avoid going to Dubai--during Ramadan and during late August. Well, Dubai, here I come.
One thing Ramadan makes you conscious of is the degree to which little urges dominate the rhythms and cycles of our lives. I mean, not to state the obvious, but our lives revolve around eating! Taking that cycle away takes some adjustment, and right now my stomach hurts, and I think I'm getting a cold, and there is some delicious leftovers in the frig, but still, I RISE, and I fast, and I try to pray.