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Question

 

Gramps,

I hear that fasting is a way that people get help from God. I am going through a heartbreak that is hard for me to cope with at the moment. I can’t eat and sleep that well. I cry most of the time and I am sick of it.  I thought of fasting to help me get through the day and to simply get over it but would God understand my purpose or will he want me to deal with it on my own somehow? Will fasting be a dumb thing to do to feel better from that?

Mir

 

Answer

 

Dear Mir,

Your question was very sad to read. I’m so sorry to hear that you are struggling right now. I am reminded of the conversation in the Wizard of Oz. When the Tin Man asks the Wizard for a heart, the Wizard wisely says, “You don’t know how lucky you are not to have one. Hearts will never be practical until they are made unbreakable.” He was, of course correct.

You need not just look to classic movies about heartbreak. The bible also says, “He heals the broken in heart, and binds up their wounds.” (Psalm 147:3). So your heart is in the right place-turning to God in times of sorrow is the best thing you can do. Since you didn’t tell us the nature of your heartbreak I can’t offer any specific advice about how to deal with it.  Fasting and prayer are important, but you need to be careful and take care of yourself as well. Despair can lead to depression, and some of the symptoms you are describing concern me. This isn’t medical advice but often times a lack of sleep, crying and going though heartbreak can lead to something much more serious. If this continues, there is no shame in going to a doctor or counselor and seeking advice.

Fasting is certainly a way to grow closer to our Heavenly Father, but be careful. Anything can be taken to a dangerous extreme, even things that are sacred and holy. Your body needs food to operate and fasting too much can be counterproductive and dangerous to your body and soul. When in doubt about these issues, it’s best to talk to your bishop. He has spiritual authority over you in these matters and can give you answer much more in tune with the spirt.

I’m praying for you, and please keep your chin up. This too shall pass, and while it seems shattering now in a few years you might have a very different perspective over it.

 

Gramps

 

 

 

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