HPU students undergo fasting for a bigger purpose
By Nicholas Bainbridge// News Editor
On Sept. 11, 2012, a group of High Point University students underwent a fast, not consuming food of any kind for 30 hours straight. This challenge was arranged by the HPU Chapel Board of Stewards who wanted to find an exercise that is both religious and activist in nature.
The fasting event, dubbed 30 on E, originally started two years ago in order to gain attention for the plight of the impoverished in the High Point area.
“We did 30 on E to emphasize and bring attention to how this area used to be number one in North Carolina for food poverty,” explained Nick Kirby, a sophomore on the board of stewards who successfully completed the fast. “This year it is not quite as high, but more stills needs to be done.”
The stewards and other participants in the fast want to gain a better understanding of food hardship that many face in the surrounding areas outside HPU’s gates.
The activism has a second aspect of it as well. The fact that they are undergoing this act of self-denial publicly is part of the Board of Stewards plan to raise awareness. Most people do not regularly consider the issues of food accessibility among the local impoverished.
The Board of Stewards runs several projects throughout the year that help provide necessities and luxury items to those in need in the High Point area. The restraint and avoidance of food service reminds them of the issue they are trying to remedy and inspires them to redouble their efforts to alleviate food poverty in the community.
Fasting also has the secondary motivation of being a spiritual exercise in self-restraint. According to Nick Kirby, it is about enforcing self-denial and avoiding instant gratification in order to grow spiritually and emotionally.
“It’s about emptying yourself so that you can fill yourself with God,” Kirby said.
Students on HPU’s campus, with so many easily accessible dining options, might find it difficult to resist the temptation to purchase food. Furthermore, some students who attempted to complete the fast were unable to finish due to medical reasons, as it can be dangerous for some people to go for a 30-hour period without any additional sustenance.
Those that did complete the fast found it to be a struggle, but a worthwhile one.
Justin Frederick, another student who successfully underwent the fast for the whole 30 hours, described the experience as “grueling,” particularly due to his dedication to a strictly regimented athletics diet.
“Still,” Frederick said, “I definitely appreciate the spiritual growth. I feel like I’ve become better and closer to God.”
Due to the nature of fasting, it is not recommended for everyone to attempt, but Kirby had a piece of advice for those in a sufficiently healthy state to attempt it.
“Be sure to stay busy and distract yourself from the hunger. Also, you should do it with other people.”
Pictured above are several of the members who serve on the HPU Chapel Board of Stewards who participated in the 30 on E fasting challenge. Photo submitted