No thanks, I'm just looking.

That is typically the response we give to all those pesky salesman in the department stores. They don't ever seem to leave you alone, do they? I mean, we just want to look around at all the stuff we want, with absolutely no intention of purchasing a single item.

I think that's what I've been doing in this fast, regrettably. I just go by every day, reminding myself of the media that I CAN'T have (things we can't buy) and don't listen to my friends/youth leaders (salesclerks) who are there to remind me of things that I CAN have and do. I accepted the fact that I can't have secular media (purchase an item) but don't really focus on replacing it with stuff such as: reading the Bible, praying, journaling, etc. I don't know about you, but whenever I'm reminded of that, I just kind of brush it off.

"Yeah yeah, I can read the Bible and pray but lets get real--I want TV." I have no intention of "buying anything."

It may have to do with the fact that I've been ridiculously busy with school, pit orchestra, and more. But nevertheless, I should not be making excuses.

This years fast hasn't been a complete failure, however. We're only halfway through! I did find a little extra time to write a story based on Jeremiah 29:11 which says: "For I know that plans I have for you," says the LORD. "They are plans for good and not disaster, to give you a future and a hope."

This verse is always very encouraging to me. Even though we may feel like we're just going through the motions, know that God has a plan for you and will always be there. He isn't going to settle for: "I'm just looking."

Praying for you all and I hope this fast is going amazing for everyone! :)

-Maggie