Fasting

Dr. Shabir Ally posted a YouTube video with the Title: “Can I Watch Pornography While Fasting?” Yesterday my wife gave me a look of disapproval while asking me about that six word question which I had scribbled on a sticky note on my desk. I told her it was a reminder for a Blog posting, so then I had to immediately write this one. I did not click on the link because: (1) I did not want to be a bait clicker; (2) Just the title provided me with enough material for a Blog; (3) I have no current interest in either pornography or fasting even though my younger self may have dabbled with fasting; and (4) Dr. Ally’s stern demeanor in his YouTube photo suggests no actual pornography is included in the video. In fact, what person with serious spiritual intent could ask such a question? A threshold query about when pornography is appropriate for viewing would likely eliminate fasting as a candidate for an exception. The Catholic Church dispensed me from fasting obligations when I turned 60. The Lenten fasting guidelines for ages 14-59 are actually so liberal that many fasting proponents make more sacrifice than the minimum requirement. But I abandoned fasting as soon as I could because it makes me hungry. And hunger can be a gateway craving that leads to gluttony, another scourge in the sin arsenal that includes lust. I am not sure at which age I am allowed to laugh at the question posed by the YouTube link. Over 70? Over 80?