Editor’s note: During the month of ‘Ala’ a handful of writers collaborate to share one work for each day of the Fast.
Up at 5:30—before the rise of the sun
Breakfast with the crew. This is how its done.
Prayers with players at the start of the day
Purify first thing. Let nothing stand in our way
The vibe is different when experienced with others
Thankful for friendship from this band of brothers
Nap seems seductive. Yet I’m not ready to sleep
Got to be productive before fatigue starts to creep
“Even though outwardly the Fast is difficult and toilsome,
yet inwardly it is bounty and tranquility.”*
When faced with tribulations my blood does boil some
Today I’ll find a way to proceed with humility.
– Gilbert Smith
* quote from Bahá’u’lláh, The Importance of Obligatory Prayer and Fasting, XVI