My whole life, I’ve loved to cook and be in the kitchen. Since I can remember, I have been given at least one cookbook at Christmas from my family. Initially, I loved to bake. Cookies, cake, bread, anything! As I got older, my love of baking developed into a love of cooking “real food”. I would always attempt the elaborate dishes. I remember once I tried to flambé a dish, and my mother stood behind me with a fire extinguisher! My attempts in culinary masterpieces did not always turn out properly, or even edible, but with every bad batch of cookies, I became more excited to figure out how I could make them better.
Fast-forward a few years, I had just gotten back from France; the land of delicious Pâtisseries, frommage, and all things tasty and fattening! I had gained a few extra pounds, and decided to make a change. I researched a diet that would help me lose weight, whilst still eating the foods I most liked, which are fruits and vegetables. At the same time, I happened upon the Mayo Clinic’s website for cancer prevention. Having a long list of cancer-related deaths, and near misses in my family, I took their advice for a mostly plant-based diet. I took it a step further and became a full vegetarian, pretty much over night. It sounded perfect, I was able to eat what I liked, but just omit the nasty meat bits. Weight-loss, cancer prevention, and glowing skin, how could I say no?
Researching my new diet choice, I of course googled everything I could about vegetarianism, and was shocked at what I found. I have always surrounded myself with truth, and was saddened to find out what had been going on right under my nose. I saw all the typical pictures of the veal calf, de-beaked chickens, and lame animals being abused. I was stuck to the computer screen for hours, shaking my head and crying at all that I did not know. That day, I made a vow to myself, for the animals; I was going to eliminate the suffering from my diet. I came to veganism for health reasons, and stuck with it because I could not think of one good reason not to. Being vegan has opened my eyes to all that is wrong with the world, but it has also shown me so many good things and has given me unbelievable hope. It has taken me a while to transition to a full vegan, but the road has been worth it. I have learned so much about myself, my view on the world, and those around me.
I love everything about being a vegan. I am healthier and happier than I have ever been, and I know that what I am doing is right. I try to live my truth everyday, planting seeds of hope and introduce those around me to veganism through food. I make tasty vegan treats, savory dishes, and everything in between. Again, not always pretty, but usually healthy and satisfying.
Veganism is as much a food philosophy as it is a way of life. I incorporate my veganism into all aspects of my life, from how I treat others, to how I approach situations. I never tire of talking to people about healthy, peaceful living and its effects on one’s life and their surroundings. I am a happier person now that I am living my truth. Everyday is a new adventure, started, of course with a delicious breakfast!
