Yoga & Vegetarianism

3/32/11

I didn't chose to become vegetarian, rather it chose me. At a young age I felt a deep sadness when a well intentioned adult "treated" me to chicken nuggets at McDonalds. All I could think about was the fuzzy little chicks I had seen at the farm and I became nauseated. But I was embarrassed to share my feelings so I ate the nuggets and attempted to push the thoughts away. After years of denying the distress that eating another being caused, I eventually became numb to the experience  of cruelty. Then in my early teens the feelings resurfaced and I was compelled to stop eating flesh, though I still lacked the conviction to share my motivation for my decision and the journey continued. Several years later, I was diagnosed with endometriosis and it was at this time that I learned about the many negative health consequences of dairy, in particular the hormones that are pasted on to humans when costuming animal products. I was alarmed and angered to learn that there were scientific studies directly linking animal products to cancer and a myriad of health problems. Why were health professionals, the federal government and my school offering this?!

After, shunning dairy, largely for health reasons, my focus shifted when the connection between individual ill health and the suffering inflicted on dairy cows was revealed to me. This revelation came through the teachings of Jivamukti Yoga and the universal laws of Karma. Causing suffering to another being would inevitably lead to individual and global suffering was revealed. It was simple and astounding to remember that every cause has an effect. Often the effects do not come with immediacy, so we fail to see the relationship. When we do, we often deny it because the truth can be hard to bear. I chose to become a proud vegan because denying the truth is yet harder to bear. This is my story. I hope it inspires you to live your truth....our collective truth.