The Byzantine fast, a 40-day period of fasting and spiritual preparation for Christmas observed by the Eastern Orthodox and Eastern Catholic churches, begins on November 15 and ends on December 24. During this time, participants abstain from meat, dairy, fish, wine, and olive oil.
How fascinating, then, that this period coincides with Thanksgiving – a holiday steeped in abundance, gratitude, and feasting, centered on turkey and all the trimmings. I can’t help but wonder: how do those observing the fast reconcile it with Thanksgiving? Do they skip the feast entirely? Or perhaps they pardon the turkey and opt for the stuffing instead?
These thoughts have been flowing through my mind as we move closer to the year’s end. Christmas is coming, along with reflections on what’s passed and resolutions for what lies ahead. And somewhere in the middle of it all, I had this thought:
What if, amidst the noise of planning, shopping, and endless scrolling, we chose to fast our minds? Not by suppressing our thoughts, but by letting go of the habit of judgment – those snap opinions, comparisons, and critiques of others and ourselves.
Letting go of the judgmental mind might feel radical, even uncomfortable. We often cling to our judgments as if they define us. But what if, just for a moment, we let go of our grip? Imagine walking into a family gathering without assumptions, without assigning blame or praise, without deciding who’s wrong or right. Imagine freeing yourself from the need to evaluate every choice, mistake, or imperfection.
Instead, create mental and emotional space to truly listen, see, and love. Isn’t that, in the end, what these holidays are about?
So this year, I want to try something new: a fast of the mind. Who wants to join me?