Reply #171: Can't we all just get along? [View All]

[fulllib]

I am a vegan and proud to be one. However, reading through all of these posts has stressed me out. It's hard to hear how vegans are unhealthy and ONLY care about animals. My choice to be vegan is one of many things that I am doing to protest the treatment of animals, saving the environment and my overall health. I eat local food, only drive when necessary, don't own an AC, recycle, compost, turn off the lights, support small business with my dollars and avoid big business when possible, member of a food co op, and have 1 child who I educate on all aspects of how we can lower our carbon footprint and be a compassionate human at all times. Just to name a few.....

However, I do believe my veganism is a choice and would be a hard sell for many, which is why I would never judge another's choice. There are many factors to one's diet and meat is one of them. I am lucky to live in a place that has local organic food aplenty. I choose to spend less on other areas of my life so that I can afford it. I understand that these costs would be difficult for a family larger than mine. I understand that smaller communities may not have access to all of the things that I have. I understand that culture plays into this as well, not to mention the comfort many people associate with certain foods. I know how annoyed I get when people keep badgering me on how I get my protein, calcium or B 12.

Do what you think is best for your health, your personal footprint, your community and your health.