March 1, 2008

Approximately 30 Simpson students, faculty and staff are taking part in a challenge to simplify their lives and “fast from consumption” during the Lenten season.

The challenge encourages participants to reflect on their consumer habits and rid their lives of excess purchasing or consumption.

The challenge includes three elements. Participants choose which parts of the fast they will take part in. The elements are: 

• A break from buying consumer goods, including all non-necessities such as new clothes or entertainment goods
• A break from spending on eating out, including buying fast food or drinks
• A break from technology, which includes watching less TV, spending less time online and turning off cell phones

This is the second year the fast has taken place. Assistant Professor of Political Science, Kedron Bardwell, who organized the activity, said many people who participated in the first fast have incorporated the principles of living simply into their everyday routines and habits since last year.