Hi Klara,
Thanks for taking the time to dig in and read between the lines. Hearing that you reread my old posts and are curious about my health just genuinely makes me feel special -- thanks for that
I'm more than happy to follow up on those topics. For the backpacking trip, I'll post in the
original thread for organization sake and for the benefit of anyone else who stumbles upon it (plus it'll likely be a longer post).
As for the rice fast, I did try the #7 regime in Nov-06. I was still very new to MB at the time and in retrospect, looking for a "quick fix" to the condition I was trying to resolve. While I didn't achieve my goal, I did learn quite a bit from the experience which will be valuable should I try again. My increased knowledge of health and MB since that time has also allowed me to better understand things that happened during and while coming off the fast.
Regarding the cooking class - no, I only ever attended the single 4-week class. I've eyeballed a few classes since that time; however, I already have a grasp on the basics of the philosophy and application; I also have a huge collection of recipes. This leaves socializing with like-minded people the primary value in additional classes at this point (which isn't a bad thing); however, it's something I have a hard time justifying the $$$ and commute for.
Concerning the donation of blood, my feelings are that Bruce is correct in his explanation of the impact it has on a "balanced" individual and that it's important as a society to strive towards a place where donating isn't necessary; however, until there's greater signs that our society is progressing in that direction, I believe blood donation is a necessary act so long as you're able.
Well there's the quick recap - hope I wasn't too brief
As for your other questions, no - I'm not in contact with other MB people, vegans, or even vegetarians. The source of all my information is strictly written (books and internet). My mom and sister are semi-vegetarian and enjoy any MB meals I make for them; however, the priorities of my family and friends lie elsewhere leaving my MB journey a solo one.
You mentioned not being certain whether your commitment would be different if surrounded by others practicing MB. Speaking for myself, I'm quite positive it would be -- it'd be MUCH easier to stay the path. I feel like my commitments are challenged on a daily basis as the people around me take no issue with eating non-MB foods I too once enjoyed (namely, cookies and pizza!)
7 years of being vegan have helped with that though. Learning to be vegan 1 day at a time helped prep me for macrobiotics and maintaining the willpower. Also, knowing that things get easier with experience helps.
Back to your questions... I think of my health and MB strictness as sitting on opposite ends of a teeter-tauter. That is, as my health improves, I get more relaxed with MB; as I get more relaxed with MB, my health decreases, etc. I'm aware it's not the ideal arrangement. But fortunately every time I get strict again, I reread my books, pick up new understandings, try introducing new recipes/foods in my routine, and bring my health and lifestyle a little closer into balance.
Yes, that's a lot from a question on peeling.
I can see what you mean about it being a question on multiple levels though. Genuine curiosity prompted me to ask because I'm working with some new recipes and didn't want to get sick from eating something I shouldn't. I believe I've identified a lingering health condition as yin in origin so I'm focusing my efforts on more yang foods. I'd say my health is otherwise above average.
As mentioned above, I can relate to the difficulty in being around others who eat the SAD. Do you find these forums an effective way of reinforcing your commitment? I don't know how long you've been on MB but it's longer than me; how have you been able to keep motivated for so long?
Damon