  Disclaimer: I got a little feverish about this post. Isral and Grace, I feel really bad because it sounds like it’s directed at you. I realize you were just being thoughtful and curious. This post was in the making for a long time, none of it having to do with your comments.
I am not here to lecture no-veg kids. But the moment I let it slip that I am Vegan, the same predictable events come to pass. Without fail, people will rationalize their meat-eating. In most cases, one of the following is said: - “Well, I really don’t eat that much meat.” - “Psh, you’re supposed to eat meat! We have to! Humans are carnivores!” - “So you don’t eat meat so you’re thin ?” Seriously, I haven't always been Vegan; I know what’s going through your head. I didn’t ask to be the poster child for Veganism. I don’t want to get into a philosophical debate about animal rights. I just want to eat my tofu in peace. The thing about debating personal opinions is this: no one is going to cave in .
Guess what, meat-eaters of the world? I know you must feel that after you say something particularly profound, I will suddenly drop my Tofutti and have a revelation. I’ll realize that I have to start eating “like a regular person”. I will change my entire life; throw away all my faux-leather shoes, my animal free soap, my soy milk-- right? Wrong, actually. I did not wake up one day and say “ Hey, I think I’ll open myself up to judgment and ridicule and give up a lot of foods I like to eat!
Woot !” I fucking studied it. This is what I believe in. This is part of who I am . Liken it to religion if you want. You won’t make a Christian denounce his faith by simply telling him to. In general, people react as if I have personally insulted them. Because I live a lifestyle labeled “radical”, apparently it’s fair game for anyone to take a cheap shot (“ Ohhh, this hamburger is so good.
I love eating meat! Do you want some, Anna? ”) And it pisses me off. It’s judgmental and cruel. I am passionate about Veganism. I made the decision that is right for me. It certainly isn’t the decision for everyone. But I encourage others (especially people I care for or am close with) to understand why I live an animal-free life. It boils down to respect. I respect people who eat animals, especially if they have learned about alternate ways. And I hate to sound all Aretha Franklin on you, but all I am asking for is a little respect. R-E-S-P-E-C-T. Affectionately… Anna 
