munching mindfully in solidarity

So today is the official start of Ramadan here in Dakar, and the streets have never been so quiet. Sans manger, the energy level is palpably lower. We are not fasting ("It's a great month not to be Muslim," in a Catholic Senegalese friend's words), but we have decided to be more mindful of what we're consuming this month, so if any of you want to join us in that, that would be cool. Some ideas: Before each meal, take a few moments to breathe deeply and reflect on the person/people who prepared your food and engage your senses in it. Then, take the time to savor what you're eating, without overeating or eating too quickly. Actively experience gratefulness for your co-eaters, the moment, and the food you are lucky to have!

For Ramadan, people are going to be getting up at 5 to pray and then eat a big meal before 6:30 or so, when they start the fast, which lasts until sundown. Then they eat again. I will probably fast for a few days in solidarity, but there is no way that I could make it through the day here without water-yikes! It's definitely in the 100s right now.

Yesterday Aziz and I danced and drummed with a bifal friend we met on the beach, which was really beautiful- the huge melon shaped sun was setting over the huge waves. It's always an adventure carrying my new shiny red, black, and white hoop around the streets of Senegal's capital city. Ironically, I think I actually get hassled less because everyone assumes I'm part of a group or something or else are just shocked. In either case, I get less of the typical "Ana sa jikeer," or "Where's your husband?" which is a standard second question after hello, how are you?