Veganism: Not Just for Compassion but for Health and the Environment
I began following a vegan diet at the age of 35. Before that, I used to observe vegetarian days periodically, a few days each month, but not very consistently. At that time, I didn’t fully understand or have a real motivation for this dietary change.
Chicken used to be my favorite food. During my free time, I could almost finish two whole chickens, and parties with meat and alcohol were frequently organized. I enjoyed the taste and the social aspect of these gatherings.
It was truly a fortunate coincidence that I came across talks by Buddhist monks. They spoke about compassion and love for all beings, which started to change my thinking. Their words resonated with me on a deep level, planting seeds of awareness and empathy.
I used to think that since I didn’t kill animals myself and didn’t advocate for killing them, eating their meat wasn’t an issue since it was already prepared and sold in supermarkets. I just happened to buy and consume it. However, a statement from one of the monks awakened my mind: “If you don’t eat, no one will kill them to sell the meat.” Indeed, I was the reason those chickens were killed and displayed for sale. This realization struck me profoundly.
I seriously pondered this issue for a while, and then I accidentally watched some videos about livestock farming in Australia. The way animals were tortured and slaughtered on those farms haunted me endlessly. The inhumane conditions and the suffering inflicted on these sentient beings left a deep impression on me. I couldn’t shake off the images and sounds of their pain and fear.
So, I decided to stop eating animal meat and to follow a vegan diet. This decision felt like a natural progression from my newfound awareness and compassion.
At first, there were certain difficulties. I wasn’t exactly a meat enthusiast, but it had become a habit. Giving up a habit of more than 30 years was not easy. There were moments when I thought about quitting. During such times, my mind had to struggle intensely. I would re-watch the livestock farming and fishing videos, and listen to the monks’ talks again. Thanks to this, I gained the strength to overcome those feelings. I reminded myself constantly of the reasons behind my choice, and the ethical principles that motivated me.
Now, I have been vegan for nearly five years. It’s not a very long time, but it truly represents an effort on my part—a commitment to practicing compassion for all beings. It has also significantly improved my health. I’ve noticed changes in my energy levels, digestion, and overall well-being. Adopting a plant-based diet has not only been beneficial for animals but also for my own body.
Currently, I feel healthy, perhaps even better than I did five years ago. My spirit is at peace. I feel closer to and more integrated with nature, truly feeling like a part of it. This lifestyle change has brought me a sense of harmony and connectedness with the world around me. The journey of going vegan has been transformative, enriching my life in ways I couldn’t have imagined before.
Conclusion
Embracing veganism has been a transformative journey, filled with challenges and profound rewards. With perseverance and a genuine commitment, you too can overcome initial obstacles and reap the incredible benefits for your health, spirit, and the world around you.
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This article is based on my personal experience and should not be considered a substitute for professional dietary advice.
Consult a healthcare professional before transitioning to a vegan lifestyle, especially if you have underlying health conditions.