Last night was the first night of Passover, the Jewish holiday where no leavened bread is eaten and matzoh is substituted.  This is a type of restriction even though there is a substitute.  We all know that restriction (of any type) leads to a binge.  Therein lies the dilemma…to restrict bread or not?

I think the decision depends on the person so here are a few questions to ask yourself.  Are you religious?  Does the meaning behind the ritual mean something to you besides just doing what you’ve always done, what’s expected or because other people think you should?  Does restricting bread feel like deprivation?  Does eating matzoh for 7 days make you feel good physically?  Do you need to observe the “no bread” thing for the entire 7 days?  After answering these questions, the decision can be made.

I will be having matzoh and the traditional meals made with it but if I want leavened bread, I will have it.  But, I know I won’t be perfect because that’s not what I strive for anymore and that’s good enough for me.  🙂