Why More Veggies?

"Why are you vegetarian?" I get that question every once in awhile. I like to take a passive approach in my explanation as opposed to my husband. He once blurted out at a wedding reception dinner table that "meat is murder" as the other guests at the table began to eat their tender loin or chicken . I slowly shrunk down in my seat. Well, someone DID ask him the question. I never replied with "Why do you eat meat?". I assume it's just another choice that someone has made just like me. After all, it is OUR choice.

For me it happened my last semester in college when my roommate and I were innocently watching a program on HBO. Little did I know that it would change my life forever along with my eating choices. It was called "To Love or Kill: Man Versus Animals". (I have recently learned that HBO claims the documentary does not exist due to corporate flack.) INTERESTING! Well, there are plenty of other films that will give you insight to just how horrible factory farming, fur trade, etc. are. Basically ignorance IS bliss! Well, something in my heart changed the day I saw that film. It showed an interesting perspective on the subject: first, just how well some

animals are treated and then just how horribly horrific many are treated. It shows the pet industry with plush doggie daycares, cancer treatment centers for pets, Buddhist monks sweeping the steps all day as to not step on an insect and the sacred cows of India in the Hindu tradition. On the flip side, it takes you to the downed cow at a factory farm, the chicken getting it's beak cut clear off while alive and a cat being skinned alive for its fur in scalding water- that's the one that got me. A cat being skinned alive. I still remember its eyes. It is an image I wish I could erase. Who could do that to a living being? Who? At that moment it was like a massive rush came over me seeing ALL living, breathing beings as one. Capable of suffering and pain. Doesn't EVERY being have a right NOT to suffer? Don't we have the responsibility to make the RIGHT CHOICES? That is all we can do- make the right choices.

My platform here is to really try and take a positive approach. If everyone just started small, exploring more vegetarian options each week, shopped locally and supported their local farmers it could begin to make a difference. Boycott the fast food joints- I promise nothing about them is good for you or you family and it might only taste good because most likely it has been injected with flavoring. Take a stand, challenge factory farming and mystery foods. Think about the future environment and health issues. It is all linked together. Most of all, be happy! Be positive! Have fun with fresh foods, enjoy their tastes and all they have to offer.

Why vegetarian? Why not?

Thanks for taking the time to listen.....