The 30-day Gandhi challenge (January 1-30)
My object is only to show that he who would go in for novel experiments must begin with himself. That leads to a quicker discovery of truth, and God always protects the honest experimenter.  -Gandhi

The basic 30-day Gandhi challenge asks people to give up intoxicants for 30 days, with two 24-hour fasts. Change starts with ourselves, and additional self-improvement offerings are part of this program as well, reinforced by regular blog posts on Gandhi's life and lessons. This includes an optional 72-hour fast at the end, 

This project serves within a framework of a larger constructive program - a positive program of self-improvement for individuals and communities - to address social, cultural, electoral and legislative issues in America. Part of the purpose of this challenge is to become uncomfortable voluntarily, and open ourselves to stepping outside of our political comfort zone. For members of the American Union, completion of these 30 days can qualify them to take on other roles like organizer.

This is a community building project, and we'll meet together on Zoom 2-4 times for each challenge. The regular sessions are the 1st and the 15th of each month for discussion. For those interested in the political side of the project, Zoom sessions on the 8th and 22nd will offer more details on how all of these pieces connect within the American Union, and contain an opportunity for shared reflections. On Thursday, February 1, we'll meet to conclude January's challenge and reflect on what we've learned.

Got questions? Reach out to GandhiGuy30@gmail.com. Be the change you want to see in the world!
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Are you a member of the American Union using this challenge to qualify for advanced roles?
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What is your phone number?
Sobriety  (essential) -
In 2020, more than a quarter million Americans died prematurely because of alcohol or drugs. Prohibition has been tried and is a failure. A better solution is addressing the roots causes of abuse. As Gandhi wrote, “It is the man who of his own free will avoids drinking that is really virtuous.” The same logic applies to the recreational use of any inTOXICant, whose very root word demonstrates that it is poison.
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Fasting (essential + optional)
Gandhi used group fasts to unite the divided people in his country, asking them to abstain from food for 24 hours, and only drink water. (He suggested a dinner-to-dinner fast.) His final call came in August 1947, when he said, "The 15th is the day of our trial. Observe a fast on that day." This fast for peace is still observed each month. (Medical exemptions are available for all who need them.)

His final call came in August 1947, when he said, "The 15th is the day of our trial. Observe a fast on that day." The fast for peace is still observed each month. Gandhi was assassinated on January 30, 1948, and an annual three-day fast commemorates his life. *
An ethical diet (optional) -
Gandhi observed a vegetarian diet out of respect for life, and wrote, “a bloodless diet should prove very beneficial in every way, apart from its immeasurable superiority to flesh foods on grounds scientific, sanitary, economic, ethical and spiritual.”
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Walking (optional) -
As a practical matter, the average American normally walks several miles each day: this challenge is for intentional walking. As a young man, Gandhi developed a lifelong habit of walking. Some of his more notable accomplishments include the 241-mile Salt March in 1930 (over several weeks) and, while living in South Africa, walking 50 miles in a single day.
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Meditation (optional) -
Gandhi spent time daily in prayers and held interfaith prayer meetings. Since this program is secular and personal, the challenge is to engage in meditation for 30 days. More resources and support can be found in r/30daysit. (Thanks for Roger P for the suggestion.)
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No food after sunset (optional) -
Gandhi adopted this habit in South Africa, finishing his last meal by sunset. Maybe that was why he was so skinny! For an extra challenge, limit yourself to only water.
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Is there another challenge you are undertaking and would like to share for accountability, or would you like to suggest an experiment for future 30-day challenge?
Which emails would you like to receive?
The Zoom meetings for this challenge fall as follows: Mondays in January, and Thursday, February 1. Depending on responses, multiple time slots may be offered. Which of the following would you be interested in? (Please check all that apply.)
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