Fasting in the monastic community is considered an ascetic practice, a “dhutanga” practice. Dhutanga means “to shake up” or “invigoration”. The Buddha, as is well known, emphasized moderation, the Middle Way that avoids extremes, in all things. Fasting is an additional method that one can take up, with supervision, for a time.
To uphold righteousness, so supreme an act did he perform; he gave his head, but did not utter a word of sorrow. For the sake of righteousness, he did this great heroic deed; he laid down his life but not the principles… Guru Tegh Bahadur broke his earthly vase on the head of the Emperor of Delhi – and went to the abode of God.
With a genuine keenness or readiness to serve others, one can attain happiness in any group or community, and the eagerness to serve others will endow you with the power and skill necessary for the required service. Nowadays, we tend to regard it as derogatory to serve, but there is great worth in service.
If you do the right thing, eventually you will inspire others to do the right thing.
