Are you an ambivalent vegetarian?
Categories: Sustainable Community, Vegetarian, Alternative & Green Health, Nutrition & Supplements
I have been struggling for months to adopt a (mostly) vegetarian diet. Though I don't believe it's cruel to eat an animal, I do think the conditions in which most of our livestock are horrific and I don't want my food dollars to support them any longer. If I could find a good source of local, grass-fed, free-range/pastured, humanely treated poultry and beef, I'd likely let them back into my diet, at least occasionally. But for now -- most of the time -- I'm a semi-vegetarian who still eats fish. My ambivalence was never more obvious to me, however, then last week while on vacation, where I quickly returned to my carnivorous ways despite the pangs of guilt I felt after each meal.
So when I came across this essay today, I could relate on so many levels. The author does a fantastic job of touching on so many issues that we ambivalent vegetarians deal with -- the love of a good (meaty) meal, the desire not to be the squeaky wheel, and the guilt that comes when we finally do indulge ourselves. If you're thinking of becoming a vegetarian, are trying the lifestyle on for size, or have given up because you just couldn't do it, it's definitely worth a read.
So when I came across this essay today, I could relate on so many levels. The author does a fantastic job of touching on so many issues that we ambivalent vegetarians deal with -- the love of a good (meaty) meal, the desire not to be the squeaky wheel, and the guilt that comes when we finally do indulge ourselves. If you're thinking of becoming a vegetarian, are trying the lifestyle on for size, or have given up because you just couldn't do it, it's definitely worth a read.
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Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
Jennifer Rasen 7-12-2007 @ 2:41AM
I totally know what you're struggling with; I did, too. I have to say I can't believe I'm full on vegetarian now, and I attribute it to Compassionate Cooks' podcast (and website http://www.compassionatecooks.com). The host and founder answers ALL of my questions about a veg lifestyle - from the social interactions and challenges to food, nutrition, etc. It's AMAZING. I was an "ethical omnivore" before I started listening, and now I'm a "joyful vegan," as Colleen likes to say. http://feeds.feedburner.com/VegetarianFoodForThought Good luck! :)
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Danielle 7-14-2007 @ 7:43PM
I totally know what you're struggling with; I did, too. I have to say I can't believe I'm full on vegetarian now, and I attribute it to Compassionate Cooks' podcast (and website http://www.compassionatecooks.com). The host and founder answers ALL of my questions about a veg lifestyle - from the social interactions and challenges to food, nutrition, etc. It's AMAZING. I was an "ethical omnivore" before I started listening, and now I'm a "joyful vegan," as Colleen likes to say. http://feeds.feedburner.com/VegetarianFoodForThought Good luck! :)
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Joy 7-19-2007 @ 5:47PM
Hi,
I can understand what your are feeling here. I have progressed forward towards vegetarianism over the last few years, and this last month or so I made the complete switch, other than the rare alaskan fish from sustainable waters, sought after by a local Oregonian fisherman family.
I made the switch when I was coming off of another detox/fast of raw veggies and fruits and instinctively had no desire to add back meat to my way of eating again. So, I haven't and my meals are more colorful then ever and creative! We have had mexican, italian, asian food and soon to try some indian and thai food too that are all vegetarian.
I do eat some dairy although I keep that to a bare minimum which so far has just been finely grated parmesan cheese in basil pesto for our veggie sandwiches, pasta dishes, or on my homemade hearty tomato basil soup.
Also, because I am vegetarian I feel it does not suddenly give me free reign to eat all the processed, refined, flour and/or sugar products on the market too. I still eat a primarily whole fresh foods dietary intake, consistenly of mostly farm fresh goodness from farmers markets. I feel so blessed and I am grateful for the farmers who produce these wonderful foods. It is so wonderful to know the very person who put this food onto my plate. :)
Also, I eat eggs from a small local farmer too which are custom fed with a feed made by a local feed company as well as being truly free range. They have been delicious!
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Joy 9-11-2007 @ 12:41AM
Hi!
I have been in your shoes and on one long journey of which I think I just triumphed through all those similar struggles you are now enduring.
Kudos to you and the progress you are making and the difference you share with others! :)
Joy
Salem, Oregon
http://www.livngjoys.blogspot.com
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Joy 9-11-2007 @ 1:36AM
I completely understand your view, and went on a similar journey in my life recently, although now I am finally vegetarian. I empathise with your inner struggle.
Kudos to you for the difference you are making and for making a conscientious effort towards good causes, and those beyond yourself too!
JOY :)
Salem, Oregon
http://www.livngjoys.blogspot.com
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