Preuss contains a diverse group of students and religions, consisting of Catholics, Christians, Muslims, and Orthodox Christians. Many students participate in religious fasts that hold sacred and deeper spiritual meaning to these students.
From February to April, Ramadan, Lent, and Tsome all happen to be occurring at the same time with many students practicing their religion outside of school starting to fast in order to get closer to their faith. With Preuss’s schedule and work load, it might seem hard to balance faith, responsibilities, and personal health during this time but students are not alone.
In Preuss’s Ethiopian Orthodox Christianity community, “Tsome Neibyat,” or “Tsome” for short, means “to abstain from food.” During this fasting period those of the faith avoid meat, eggs, and many more dairy products for the duration of the fast. This fast commences on February 16th and lasts until April 11th this year. The purpose is not solely for food restriction; it is also for spiritual reflection, prayer, and strengthening one’s relationship with their spirituality and faith.
Similarly, Muslim students practice Ramadan, which starts from around February 17th to March 18th. Ramadan also starts and follows in relation to the moon cycles which determine when Rammadan starts and ends each year. This year it lines up with the other fasting religions. During this month individuals fast from sunrise to sunset, abstaining from both food and water while the sun is up. Ramadan is a sacred time for these students to focus on prayer, discipline, gratitude, and charity as well as growing in their faith with their community.
Christians and Catholics participate in Lent, in which they prepare themselves for forty days leading up to Easter. Many abstain from meat on Ash Wednesday, Good Friday, and all other Fridays as well. Some students also choose to give up tempting habits such as excessive screen time, being excessively angry, or constant swearing. Lent encourages those of the faith to act with purpose and guidance as well as growing closer to God and their faith while correcting sinful behaviors.
Although there are many religions during this season, the theme of fasting for a deeper spiritual relationship remains consistent. However, students at Preuss have rigorous demanding schedules, difficult AP classes, sports, and family. Fasting can add difficulty to the amount of tasks expected from our high achievers. Hunger, thirstiness, and stress can all accumulate making students feel tired, burned out, or just lose motivation, throughout this fasting season.
A great way to stay on top of work and remain balanced in faith and school is by completing assignments earlier in the day when energy levels are higher. Also breaking large big projects into smaller steps, and using free periods productively can reduce stress. Getting enough sleep is also crucial, especially during fasting months since most students do not eat until really late.
Communication is another key factor. Students who are fasting should inform their teachers about their circumstances and give a heads up if they need any extra support. Many teachers are willing to support students when they are aware of what they are experiencing, instead of assuming the student is slacking off. Similarly, talking openly with friends about fasting can prevent misunderstandings, and build stronger relationships.
Taking care of not only mental but also physical health is equally important. Eating nutritious meals when permitted, staying hydrated when possible, and allowing time for rest can help maintain a good balance. Fasting is about spiritual growth, not self harm, burnout, or starvation.
“Honestly it gets tough but through praying and support from people close to you, you’ll lock in and get through it,” stated Mahad Hassan (26).
Students who are not fasting also play an important role. Students can help encourage those fasting by showing empathy, being mindful during lunch periods, and simply by offering some encouraging words. Actions such as these help create an inclusive and supportive environment at Preuss. Small acts of understanding can make a big difference in someone’s day.
Ultimately, fasting season reminds us that every student at Preuss has a lot on their plate. They are individuals with identities, beliefs, and responsibilities beyond the classroom walls. Faith and education do not have to compete with each other during this time. With planning, communication, and community support, students can successfully balance both parts of their lives. They can grow academically while staying true to their beliefs with all your support. Happy Rammadan, Lent, and Tsome to all Preuss students.
