Why are you vegan.... the question of a lifetime.
Often, I am asked the question, why are you vegan. Really doesn't matter where I am, at the supermarket, on the phone, in line at the DMV, with kids or without... if veganism comes up so does the question. People have a multitude of answers for that, its for the animals, its for the environment, its healthy, because I like it, because I feel good.
Often times however, i don't think the questioner is actually looking for an answer. It can often feel like a person is actually saying- why the F would you choose to be vegan, who cares. If I even begin to answer the question many people have rebuttals: it's not safe, people die, where do you get your protein.
It is amazing to me that we live in a place where people want to be individuals but when someone makes a choice that feels good, is good for the animals, good for the environment and is healthy we really learn what people want, conformity.
So in my head i ask: Why do you eat animals? Why do we think we are superior to other beings that live on this earth? Why do you add to the pollutions of the world by not choosing to eat vegan.
Again, I pause, I also remember that I am a spokesperson for the earth and for the animal community, so as a representative I need to speak from the heart and compassion. So here is what I do say. Veganism allows me to eat without guilt. It allows me to look at animals as partners in protecting this earth. I can feel inspired by my own choices. I also watch my children sit down at the dinner table and eat their salad and their veggies every night. Veganism, allows me to support and honor the best health for my child. My children are receiving nutrient rich foods everyday.
I feel as though I am a small part in the evolution of the world. I treat ALL people with kindness. Without kindness, non of this matters. if we treat our human animals in a degrading and abusive way- the abuse will continue and spread.
"Be the change that you wish to see in the world." -Ghandi
It is a heavy load to bear but it is an amazing one and full of honor. So when someone asks you why you are vegan you can say: because Ghandi told me to be the Change that I wish to see in the world. A world with kindness, love and violence free.
3 steps to going vegan:
Start by finding one recipe to make each week that you love, that is vegan and that you will be excited to have again. Most of us are creatures of habit and have the same things regularly. If you can cycle one thing in it just makes it easier. Then work on adding a second recipe.
Get a couple of cookbooks from your local restaurants. When folks email us about the recipes we are available to answer questions. It is nice to support them and build community at the same time.
Join a couple of vegan pages. I love plant based on a budget and world of vegan. Both women run and super practical.