My Journey to Vegetarianism and Beyond: A Personal Story
I became a vegetarian in 1990 after a period of internal debate and logical reasoning. The initial catalyst was a rather abstract concept I entertained at the time, which was the idea of 'cannibalism of the insane.' This introspective discussion solidified my resolve to live a vegetarian lifestyle, a choice that aligns with ethical and environmental concerns.
Despite facing initial resistance, my wife fully supported the decision and attempted to adopt a similar lifestyle, though she eventually chose to return to a non-vegetarian diet. My personal decision to embrace a vegetarian lifestyle did not stop there; by 2000, I found myself transitioning towards a more organic, plant-based diet, and eventually becoming vegan in 2011.
A Spiritual Resurrection and the Path to Veganism
During a transformative period in 2011, I underwent what I describe as a spiritual enlightenment. This experience redefined my perspective on health and interconnectedness with the environment, leading me to reconsider my dietary choices. Believing that this new way of living was both wiser and beneficial, I fully committed to a vegan lifestyle. My journey did not end there; I am now exploring the path of fruitarianism, aligning with the Abrahamic creation story of Adam and Eve as fruitarians.
Childhood and Family Influence
My journey towards vegetarianism began even earlier in life. At the tender age of four, it was the sight of chicken nuggets that led me to embrace a vegetarian diet, a decision my parents embraced without question. They supported my dietary choices out of love and acceptance, teaching me important lessons about compassion and respect for all living beings.
When I turned 14, I made the definitive shift to veganism, a choice that left my parents more surprised but also reassured about my intentions. Reflecting on my childhood, my profound love for animals and their well-being was evident. Even as a child, I nourished a passion for all forms of life, and my commitment to being a vegetarian was a natural extension of this love.
A Personal Revelation
It’s important to clarify that my dietary decisions do not stem from any moral superiority or an attempt to cast judgment on others. My family members continue to eat non-vegetarian foods, and I do not judge them. In my own journey, I have recognized the inherent suffering in all forms of animal agriculture, whether for meat, dairy, or eggs.
The Role of Family and Community
Family and community have played significant roles in my journey. Raised by loving, non-judgmental parents who supported me unconditionally, I feel fortunate to have grown up with such understanding. My in-laws, especially my sister-in-law who adopted a vegan diet, joined me in learning new recipes and cooking techniques, fostering a supportive environment for both of us.
Conclusion
Reflecting on my journey, it’s clear that my decision to embrace a vegetarian lifestyle, then veganism, and now fruitarianism, is deeply rooted in love for all living beings and a desire to live sustainably. I am grateful for the support of my loved ones and the opportunities to explore new dietary paths. What started as a personal choice has become a lifelong journey of love, compassion, and respect for life.