Inspired by Alicia Silverstone's "The Kind Diet" and Michael Pollan's "In Defense of Food," we want to experience the vegan lifestyle to improve our health, boycott animal suffering, and reduce our carbon footprint.

Friday, February 19, 2010

Getting heckled

As I've mentioned before, it feels wonderful to receive support from friends and family.  Thanks to everyone who has voiced encouragement, made thoughtful accommodations for my needs, or passed along yummy recipes or helpful sites!

There have also been some neighsayers who have been heckling me for my stance. "Veganism is not sustainable for any long period of time." "All the vegetarians and vegans that I know look unhealthy." "You don't think the plants have feelings too?! Poor Parsley."
To these people I say:
It is possible to fail at being a vegan. A "vegan" (or omnivore, for that matter) who doesn't eat a variety of fresh, unprocessed foods in moderation has an increased risk of being overweight and prone to illness.  A "vegetarian" who eats cheese pizza, french fries, potato chips, ice cream, and Doritos daily probably doesn't feel or look healthy. There are many people who are vegan for the majority of their lives. It is possible to thrive as a vegan - there are countries and cultures who revolve around a vegan lifestyle.  As for the feelings of the plants, they have told me they are without emotion and indifferent to getting eaten. What? You haven't heard the grass whisper to you?

Day 13 Food Journal:
-oatmeal, .5 kiwi, mushrooms & spinach
-chili, salad, yam
-apple
-falafel wrap, orange

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