Reflections

Today was the Jewish fast day of Yom Kippur. I attended services last night, as well as this morning and evening at the council chambers in the upstairs of the Parkinson's building. In addition to being on campus, the services were also accompanied by security who insisted on walking us home.

The last 24 hours have been reflective and thought provoking. Aside from the fact that my stomach was grumbling all day long, and exlcuding the dreams I had about food last night, it's been quite a shedding of alternative perspectives.It is perhaps in the absence of things that we take most notice of their value- Take the obvious example, food, which I developed an earnest appreciation for today. But on the less superficial surface, I decided today to abstain as much as possible from technology. Aside from using the electronic key card to get into my building, I avoided the elevator (not just because someone seems to have thrown up in it this weekend), did not make calls or send texts on my cell phone, and stayed off of the computer. With the last being the most daunting task, this separation opened my eyes to my (not to mention society's) dependency on technology. But what was most illuminating, was the fact that today had become the most productive day of all! Steering away from distractions such as facebook and msn subvertly forced me to catch up on my readings and current events, not to mention cleaning my room, even if it was because I had nothing else to do. In fact, I think I even aroused my brain from the deep slumber of summer and this extended vacation.

It's very similar to the effects of the blackout we had in Toronto a couple of summers ago. With the entire grid out of power, our lives were literally put on hold as we were forced to pause and for once, understand the nature of our dependency and embrace our daily failings to recognize the forces beyond our control. Today reminded me of the feelings that I had that night, a certain sense of community that was otherwise lacking.

Whether it be food, friends, family, or even light, it is necessary to constantly and consistently keep in mind that such things should never be appreciated solely in their absence. And of course, I love and miss you all. xoxo.