Overcoming Negativity

When entering the veg-world four years ago, I was met with a lot of questions, put-downs, and even anger. My family and friends didn't understand my choice to not eat meat. They wanted reasons, facts, and sometimes, no amount of my knowledge would suffice to make them happy and understand.

Heres the big thing you need to realize from the start: Some People Just Won't Ever Get It.

...and that's okay. It's their choice to learn to understand or not.

You already know how to answer some of the questions they might throw at you.

Q: Why don't you eat meat?

A: Refer to one of my first posts. Environment, Animal Cruelty, World Hunger, or "Because I just don't like the taste of it."

Another good answer is: Why do YOU eat meat?

Q: "How will you ever get enough protein? Vegetarians are always sick because they don't get enough."

A: Beans, Legumes, Peanut butter, Tofu, Tempeh, TVP, Quorn, Boca, or Morningstar products (Research will give you even more options.)

Q: "Arn't you always hungry?"

A: No...

Q: "Do you just eat Salads???"

A: No- do you just eat DUCK?

Q: "What do you order when you go out to eat?"

A: "Lots of things..."

These are just some questions you will encounter. Many times, your grandparents at holidays will be your worst enemies. You know- the one who makes the famous meatballs, and needs you to take just ONE bite! Don't let them win- it's your choice and they need to respect that.