Becoming a Vegetarian

If someone were to ask me what sort of "beliefs" I strive to have govern my life, I'd probably say things like: The belief that life is precious, regardless of how significant or insignificant it may seem. The belief that my life is not any more precious than anyone else's. The belief that everyone deserves a fair shake. The belief that we all need to look out for one another and live together peacefully. The belief that treating others as inferior never makes us superior. The belief that we have a duty to take care of our world (and although this certainly includes humanity, it is not the only part of that responsibility).

I always felt that eating meat was somewhat in conflict with the beliefs I articulated above. Being a vegetarian was something I considered for years, but I put it off for a long time--mostly out of laziness and selfishness. At the start of 2013, however, I really wanted to make some changes in my life, and I knew that vegetarianism had to be on the list. This new years resolution coincided perfectly with an Ecocriticism course I took my spring semester. One of the first texts on the syllabus was a book called Of Man and Animal which brought some deep philosophical questions about meat-eating to my mind. Many of the author's points about the agency of animals and the difference (or lack thereof) between man/beast left me feeling even more guilty than usual. My ecocriticism professor's weekly question, "Do the trees have agency?" rang in my mind during every interaction I had with nature--especially my interactions with animals.

By the fourth week of January, I had committed myself to giving up meat. Nearing six months now, I can say that I'd be extremely surprised if I ever went back.


The rumor is that being a vegetarian limits you, but I've actually had the very opposite experience. When I gave up meat, I had to figure out how to fill up a substantial part of my plate; this forced me to try new kinds of food and experiment with many different tastes. Before, I rarely ate beans; now, they're a staple of my meals. I eat more nuts and eggs and experiment with all kinds of spices and grains. I make fruit smoothies, vegetable chili/soups, and elaborate salads. Overall, giving up meat was a small sacrifice that really only expanded my tastes. It gave more than it took away.

Upon deciding to do this, I had so many friends ask me if I was going to be one of those judgmental vegetarians who make them feel guilty for eating meat. This is what I say: Because my experience has been so positive, I'd recommend vegetarianism. In general, I think it's a healthier and more moral lifestyle. But, I also know that food is a personal thing and I strive to not judge people who eat differently than I do. Although I no longer eat meat, I'd never say that I didn't like it or that I still wouldn't enjoy it if I ate it today. When I walk the streets of Philadelphia, sometimes I want a cheesesteak. I don't think meat is gross--in fact, it's probably still quite delicious--and I don't think it's impossible to eat meat and still be healthy. Being a vegetarian isn't necessarily a wrong or right choice, but it is my choice. Like any choice, it can hold both positive and/or negative implications depending on the person making it. For me, giving up meat has been a very good choice, as it has made me a much healthier person--not merely physically--but also mentally, as I sense that I am one small step closer to living in a state of what a wise teacher once coined as 'integrity': The state of your beliefs and your actions being in harmony.