We just walked in the door after being in the car for almost 8 hours with a short break 3 hours into the trip. My family reunion was super fun, I got a slight sunburn and am soooooooo ready for bed.
Sadly I have quite a few things left before that becomes a reality and blogging isn’t on of them tonight so I’m going to leave in the capable hands of Miss Lycia. I hope you enjoy her story as much as I did…
Why Did I Become a Vegetarian?
I have been a vegetarian for years now. Looking back, I can’t pinpoint the exact moment in which I decided to give up animal products. Rather, becoming a vegetarian was a result of an evolution, a series of eye-opening events, which influenced me along the journey.
Scene 1: When “Good” Food Goes Bad
I had just consumed a cheeseburger from a fast-food restaurant (which shall remain nameless). Unbeknownst to me, along with my side order of french fries, I had also obtained a case of food poisoning. As I lay on the ground, writing in pain, I vowed that if I survived this painful episode, I would never touch beef again.
Scene 2: Industry Secrets Unveiled
After hearing author Eric Schlosser speak at my university, I sought out his book, Fast Food Nation: The Dark Side of the American Meal. Schlosser detailed the barbarous practices at the meat processing plants and the factory farms, causing me to examine what sacrifices were made for my meal. Could I justify animal abuse and low-wage workers in subpar conditions just to enjoy my bucket of chicken? I didn’t think so.
Scene 3: Healthy Inspirations
On a leisure trip to the Caribbean, I visited a vegetarian restaurant and met the owners of the restaurant. Listening to them, I learned more about the endless health benefits of eating a plant-based diet. Sampling the delicious plantains, curry vegetables, and spicy bean dishes, I was convinced. Who knew that a vegetarian diet could taste soooo good, and be good for you!
I am eternally grateful for these experiences that forever altered my life. Each of them motivated me to think about the health, social, and ethical implications of the food I ingest. Do I miss my cheeseburgers/fried chicken/seafood? No way! I feel better than ever. My skin glows. I have unparalleled energy. And ironically, my demeanor has changed. By cutting out meat, I have developed a new appreciation for all forms of life. I just hope that my story can be an inspiration to others along their journey to vegetarianism.
Miss Lycia
If you enjoyed reading Miss Lycia’s story you can check her out on her blog, All Day Natural. If you like your ideas short and sweet you can keep track of her thoughts in 140 characters or less on twitter!!
And now for a song (and video) that I LOVE…
