The Vegetarian Shape Shifter

While I think it is great that people have figured out what works for themselves in life, I am all about knowing what works for me. I was a Raw Food Vegan for years. But due to health reasons, I went back to a "regular" omnivore diet. It has taken me awhile, but I finally figured out how to respond to people that say their views in a negative way. "Aww thank you for your opinion. I'm so glad the world is diverse enough to let all of our opinions exist."

I do feel that many vegetarians (and they tend to be the ones that are most vociferous) champion the cause not for any intrinsically healthy reasons but because they feel it is wrong to kill animals (period!) ... let alone for food. Some of them, it seems, won't eat animal meat but will wear a leather belt or leather shoes - something illogical there, I believe. I regularly eat meat but am 'friendly' towards vegetarians. I do believe that our modern society (depending where you are in the world) eats far too much meat. I find it particularly gross to watch some people stuffing themselves with charred and highly processed greasy cow or pig meat from a barbecue. On the whole, I wouldn't remonstrate with them about it, however, because their heart attack is not usually my concern. Anyway, I have been known to enjoy a good hamburger or sausage myself! On my better days, I prefer cheese, eggs, beans, vegetables, rice and potatoes. I have learned that I generally feel better after a balanced protein meal and, increasingly, I find myself guided in my next meal by what my body told me about my last. If someone were to actually ask me about what I considered a good diet, I would certainly offer my opinion and not think it rude to be plain-spoken. As with anything, though, advice may either be taken in good part or be offensive, depending largely on the manner in which it is given.