Beginning A New Chapter : My Vegetarian Experience

Deciding to become vegetarian was a choice that was long in the making; however, once I finally built the endurance and motivation to create change I knew it was a decision I would never look back on. I now work to live a lifestyle that not only caters to my own needs but also preserves and sustains our beautiful world.

Making the Choice

“Until he extends the circle of his compassion to all living things, man will not himself find peace.”- Albert Schweitzer

I became a vegetarian when I was 16 and have never looked back. From a young age, I had always had a deep love for animals and our environment and used any opportunity I could to educate others on the preservation of world. It was when I reflected on all that I stood for that a single question lingered internally: How can I advocate for animal rights when every night I return home they're there, sitting on my dinner plate? I began research on factory farming and the treatment of animals in these cruel and unjust farms. I came to the conclusion that this was no longer a system I could actively support and that very day I gave up meat for good.

Committing to Change

Making the choice was easy for me; however, it was followed by ridicule from others. Often, I was told that my choice was dumb, or that because I no longer eat meat I would get absolutely no protein in my diet. There is certainly a lack of understanding surrounding veganism and vegetarianism. Eating mainly plant-based doesn't mean salads and veggies for every meal. Being plant-based introduces so many different options and is eye-opening to a world that can survive and thrive without the need for meat. For me, switching to a mainly plant-based diet I had the opportunity to try so many new things and discover foods I quite honestly didn't even know existed. At the end of the day, I was constantly motivated that this one tiny change in my life plays into the role of change and minimization of our world's ecofootprint.

How Can You Make A Difference?

"Be the change you wish to see in the world.” Gandhi

Being plant-based is not an option that works for everyone. There can be a lack of will power, lack of motivation, inaccessibility to plant-based products, or medical conditions that prevent an individual from making that choice. However, there are things you can do to be doing your part in bettering our world. The biggest and easiest method is minimizing your meat intake. By decreasing your consumption of meat from every day to 3-4 times a week you hold the power to decrease our carbon footprint. An additional option is to buy meat from local farms. This option can be quite costly; however, it is still an option that is significantly better for our environment. Typically, local animals are treated far better than those in factory farming and are not harmed or abused prior to their slaughter. You are aware of exactly where your meat comes from and have a peace of mind as to know they are not filled with hormones and antibiotics. By putting these ideas into action you too can be making a difference.

Get Inspired

Together we can grow in learning how to live a sustainable and eco-friendly lifestyle. I'll make sure to update you on current environmental news, share vegan and vegetarian recipes, as well as provide ways to be more mindful in your day to day life.