Something that’s a major debate among vegs is whether or not you prepare meat for family. To me, it’s a no brainer. Of course I’ll cook Toady his steak. He doesn’t have time and he didn’t go veg. Would I love it if he agreed to a meatless meal every now and again? OF COURSE, as it would be easier on me and my kitchen, but he doesn’t want to and I’m not going to make him.
The thing is, sure I think all that meat he eats is bad for the environment, the animals, and ultimately his health, but he wants to eat it. He can read up on the statistics if he’s inclined. He’s a smart boy. I don’t have to preach at him. It’s his choice. No matter what I think of it, I can’t take that from him.
The argument goes that doesn’t it bother me to see him hurting himself/the earth/etc etc. Well, in a way, sure. But if I let it bother me, I wouldn’t be able to leave the house, as every person I know IRL save one is a meat-eater. And don’t I feel all hypocritical cooking something I’m opposed to? Well, in a way, sure. But it’s not about me. I made my choice for myself, and I stick to it, and I know that I’m making whatever difference I can. But forcing something on someone doesn’t make them accept it, even if it is ‘good’ for them. Especially if they don’t share your vision of what ‘good for you’ means.
I love my husband and I value my marriage. That looks like cooking meat. To me, that’s the end of the story. I can respect those who say, no meat in my house, and if you don’t like it, cook your own food, but I couldn’t do it.
I have to say, I really respect the way you’re looking at this. I dated a vegan once, and while it is possible that I could go veg eventually (though almost certainly not vegan) I couldn’t do it with him. I had been looking at ways to do more meatless meals already, so thought it might work. But he was so openly critical of me and my family for eating meat that I just couldn’t take it anymore. I think that people like you should be the ambassadors for veg*n lifestyles, but sadly it’s more often people like him who are the loudest.
you know what’s soooo ironic, Jessica, is that I was thinking about you today. I dont know you very well at all, but I know you comment on my blog and me on yours…well, i hadnt seen you or been here in the past week or so and you popped into my head and i was like OMG I need to get to her blog. And you were the 1st commenter on my post today. Not a coincidence if we tap into energy, and what the universe is telling us to do
On that note, thanks for the lovely note you left re volunteering. I totally agree!