The challenge ...

So I was sitting with some of the Muslim school staff at the end of the day, eating the Iftar meal allowed when the sun comes down.

They told me about a former American teacher who fasted the entire month of Ramadan with them to see what they (Muslims) felt like.

I answered, "I know how you feel. Hungry."

RAMADAN: A Look into Ritual Starvation

Fourth part of an occassional series.

We all had a laugh until one of the Muslims pressed on challenging me and my roommate Maweja, to starve for a day with them.

I said, "The food is no problem, I've got reserves built up. But no cigarettes, that would kill me."

But then the James Loughrie cockiness took over, and as I rarely walk away from a challenge or dare.

"Sure, I'll fast tomorrow."

The moment I said it I realized I went too far. But I said I would, and I keep my word.

Tomorrow, when the sun goes up, nothing can touch my mouth. Nothing to drink, nothing to eat. And the hardest part, no smoking.

Tomorrow's going to suck.