The Humility of Self Denial

The change from 800 kcal/day to 700 has had effects.  No particular hunger.  It may be psychological.  But I do feel that I am restricted by the diet from normal activities.  I walk around my neighbourhood and see other citizens enjoying food, beer, snacks.  They laugh and they smile.  They are enjoying life.

I have become mindful of the act of eating - and aware of the phenomenal plenty of a typical grocery shop. I've now consciously witnessed a similar luxury of life that this Western world economy provides. Restaurants and fast-food.  Kiosks and bars.  Each competing in their niche, providing us with a way to push back the stress that economy necessitates for our roles in it.  

But I can't participate.

That exclusion is palpable.  It's a loss that is disappointing.  The feeling of weeks without this part of life seems a measurable reduction in my life experience.  But it also reveals to me the remarkable power that the modern Western economy has.  Average citizens like myself, as a part of normal behaviour can pick and choose between an endless variety of carefully prepared foods and drinks daily or weekly.

We should be more aware - mindful - of this privilege.  It is not trivial.  It is the result of an economy that has come to be through a combination of accident and design over centuries.  It may be at risk.  

I can tell you from my experience: you will miss it when it's gone.