Why Did You Go Vegan?

Erick

When I was in college, I was a vegetarian for about a month because I thought it would make me look cool. Not surprisingly, the first time I smelled a burger on the grill again, I devoured it and was convinced I would never return back to the land of vegetables, fruits and grains. It wasn't until until I heard a holistic practitioner speak nine years later (last October) that I was struck vegan. Actually, I stopped eating meat that night and gave up dairy, honey, etc. about two weeks later. I NEVER planned on becoming a vegan but this speaker said some things that made me realize for the first time that animals killed for food process fear just like humans. They know they are going to be killed and they DO NOT wanted to be killed. It was the first time I realized I should treat a cow, chicken, pig or fish the same way I would treat my neighbors dog or cat. The revelation scared me because I'd just purchased and eaten a cooked chicken from the grocery store about two hours prior to hearing the practitioner speak. I kept the rest of that chicken in the refrigerator for another week, holding onto the belief I would come to my senses and realize the huge mistake I'd made. Thankfully, my desire and commitment to veganism grew stronger each day and I did finally throw that chicken away along with other items I was holding on to.

My diet is the most varied it's ever been and I actually know what I'm putting into my body. I've lost 30 pounds and I feel great! The most challening thing today is still dealing with the questions and concerns of family and friends. My mother was not pleased to find out I would not be having turkey with all the trimmings for Thanksgiving but I am learning to have patience and compassion. One thing I do know 10 months down the road is that 1) I should not make a promise to be vegan for the rest of my life but just worry about today and 2) to become vegan is a personal choice I don't want to force on anyone but I do believe it is the best choice spiritually, physically and emotionally for all humans.

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