Once upon a Vegan

Kids Evolve - Kindness is Child's Play!

bea.elliott@verizon.net (Bea Elliott) — Sat, 14 Jan 2012 04:07:00 +0000

A successful parent teaches a child reason and compassion.

There is absolutely nothing rational that justifies harming others.

Being Vegan is NOT a New Year's Resolution!

bea.elliott@verizon.net (Bea Elliott) — Sun, 01 Jan 2012 01:40:00 +0000

On Jan 1st I celebrate 4 years of making my choice to be vegan...

No, oddly enough, this high-day of resolutions isn't what marked my decision! And I never did understand how people could put off doing the right thing for some future time... How they could choose some distant day to act upon ending a wrong. Obviously to them doing the right thing comes with great sacrifice.
Too bad they feel that way.

It's almost as strange as people who want "welfare" measures for the animals enslaved for their "pork" and "eggs". They take comfort in knowing that by such and such eventual year, things will be improved to "acceptable" standards. Makes me want to ask them if they will eschew those products till then? Of course the answer would be "no".
Too bad they feel that way.

My Jan 1st unplanned, unscheduled and unrehearsed commitment happened quite by coincidence... At a New Year's eve get together - I mentioned to someone that I was going to the circus. The next morning I was sent an email with a link to the awful truth about what happens "under the big top". And there on the page was a word I never heard before: "factory farm". I clicked, and then - "The first time I saw a pig in a cage... I knew immediately that this was wrong. I didn't need to check with an "authority" or anyone who might explain (or excuse) why that pig was in a cage. Without the help of words my mind clearly saw this pig as a victim." The person who sent me the link thinks going vegan is too extreme.
Too bad she feels that way.

So I'd like to add here - That I also didn't need a particular time, a special hour or a calendar date to respond accordingly. Clearly, in my mind - whether it was the 1st of January, the 12th of never, or the ides of March - The time to do the right thing was that moment! Four years later...
I'm glad I still feel this way!

So on this and every Jan 1st - I intend to continue celebrating empowering knowledge... And the many life-expanding, timeless qualities it has opened to me. It was more than a new year... It was the beginning of an authentic life!

Happy New Year to all who do the right thing - NOW! ;)

I expect to pass through this world but once. Any good, therefore, that I can do or any kindness I can show to any fellow creature, let me do it now. Let me not defer or neglect it for I shall not pass this way again.
~Stephen Grellet

Butterball's Shame... My Tears... Your Choice

bea.elliott@verizon.net (Bea Elliott) — Thu, 29 Dec 2011 20:09:00 +0000

Oh shucks, darn! Just when I was starting to get all Kumbaya and all, Mercy for Animals released yet another investigation. This time on a Butterball turkey facility in North Carolina. I didn't need to see the footage - And I know my kind readers here either already have or have no desire to see it either.

I can tell you the still photos are brutal though... Beautiful white feathers are soaked in blood. Crippled and broken bodies are unable to stand... That the workers could take further measures to make their miserable lives worse is beyond me. But they did... And with unspeakable malice.

So I took myself into my yard and settled on the grass with a flock of curious hens around me... The sun did it's part to knock the shiver out of us all. And yet --- Try as I did to forget what I saw I couldn't and can't let go of those images... And the questions they raise:

How can the kind people that I know accept this as part of how they nourish themselves? How can they turn away with the fanciful thought that the birds they consume aren't subject to this same brutality? Why does this not bother them enough for appropriate change? How can they think they have the right to someone else's body and life - simply because money can buy them? What is it that I see... That they don't?

Of course these are questions everyone who's had the courage to lead an ethical life has asked themselves repeatedly too... And I'm probably not unlike you in that sometimes the tears just don't end for all the sorrow and shame that my human-kind has reduced me to. All I can think to say is that I'm so, so sorry gentle birds... I know and I see - And I weep for your pain. :(

Photos from the book Bright Barnyard by Dahlov Ipcar
(if only...)

Reflections on Virgin Births... And My Holiday Wish

bea.elliott@verizon.net (Bea Elliott) — Sat, 24 Dec 2011 18:24:00 +0000

I've been meaning to talk about this for several years... But it's a sensitive subject - So I kept putting it off till now. I suppose I should begin by saying that I don't object to any one's religious or spiritual beliefs - as long as those ideas don't require or condone bloodshed or other justifications to oppress or exploit others. I guess my "religion" and my "God" would be one that is rooted in a Golden Rule kind of thinking...

And so I'm not timid in admitting that when I first became aware of animal issues I was curious where theologians stood, and what the "boss" had to say... I went through a WWJD phase. And so it started at his birth, whether legend or not, that I saw some major contradictions in the way "the faithful" live their lives:
That was my first Christmas celebrated as a vegan. Now, years hence I'd again like to take a (critical) look at another dichotomy: one of virgin births.

As John Sakars illustrates in this video - Nonhumans are artificially inseminated (violated) as a daily practice. Even in remote islands there is news that "beef" cattle are now being impregnated via man's intervention. Artificial insemination/livestock semen is big, big business.

Most pigs, cows, sheep, goats, and even turkeys are "made" without mating. They are all "virgin births"... But ones of a most "unholy" kind, as these are also lives destined to be brutally destroyed (sacrificed) - Even though the birth of a babe named Jesus was supposed to have ended the ritual of bloodshed.

So my hope this holiday, whether one believes or not, is that good people everywhere consider the infinite errors in using the bodies of others. I wish the profiteers would stop making "virgin births".

Whether folks think that nonhumans are nephesh or not, I wish that they would see the wrong in denying innocent ones the basic drives of their species... Denying them mothers... And the most inhumane tragedy of all in stealing their lives.

Whatever your ideology - No one will betray their faith if they choose compassion. Indeed, perhaps the bloodshed was instructed to end a long time ago from the first commandment on:
Isaiah 1:11-17
Animal Sacrifice
The "Cleansing of the Temple"

It may be suggested by some books that it is not a sin to kill an animal, but it is written in our own hearts - more clearly than in any book - that we should take pity on animals in the same way as we do on humans.
Leo Tolstoy

Be generous with a gift of benevolence... Extend Good Will to All. Treat every mother's young like the precious life that it is.

Trash and Truth in Florida - Expose the Ag Gag Garbage!

bea.elliott@verizon.net (Bea Elliott) — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 13:16:00 +0000

Florida is at it again! Less than a year ago I wrote about a proposed law that would make it illegal to film animal enterprises. Well the idea has been re-introduced under SB 1184. This bill would be added to the draconian AETA. Mark Hawthorne can tell you all about it... And about activists who are bringing this oppressive law into court. Hooray!

Now here's an observation regarding Florida... It's about the garbage few get to see unless you go to these islands by boat. This video with footage from a few years ago, is in a public area... It was taken after a day spent island exploring. The disgust at the filth found on these islands remained on the forefront of my mind:

Now I admit that this and a lot of other things that have happened here in Florida have me seriously disillusioned. But I used to be a walking chamber of commerce for Florida! Once I couldn't get enough of the sunshine state:

But after years of watching Florida raze untold acres of groves for housing developments (that were never built)... After a farce of a "chads" and the shenanigans surrounding that election... After watching the infrastructure deteriorate... After the awareness of it's his-story of "cattle" and meeting the most rude, aggressive and obnoxious people in the "livestock" business... And after the introduction of these draconian laws - I'm not so grateful for the sand in my shoes any more.

So here's a thought... Since tourism is so valuable in Florida - If I were to expose the extensive filth on these remote islands... And as a result cause economic damage to the industries that feed off vacationers... Would they pass a "Tourism Enterprise Protection Act"? Hum...

And here's a head start on my protest against any law that is intended to silence the truth about "factory farms" or any other portion of animal ag.

People need to know... And be reminded every chance we get - That nonhumans love their lives just like we do. They have interests in keeping their bodies and lives unharmed. Whether it's a warehouse of hens or a pasture of cows - Using force against them is not acceptable! And I sure am NOT going to be silenced getting that message out!

Please sign and share this petition against the bill that seeks to end transparency in this animal-slave market.
~Thanks for being compassionate and aware!

The Extremes Of Disparity And Empathy - What's Fair?

bea.elliott@verizon.net (Bea Elliott) — Sun, 11 Dec 2011 14:26:00 +0000

Never before have I been so aware of living in a world of such extremes. My husband and I were discussing this just yesterday, as we rode in the car through certain neighborhoods that have obvious economic disparities. It's not uncommon for certain "high end" gated communities to be situated smack in the middle of homes that in comparison look like huts. There's one street I pass all the time - On the one side are modest homes; Reasonably maintained for sure. But they are obviously in the ranks of lower middle income. These homes are a shelter for simpler folks, in between the time they aren't out working to keep that roof over their heads... You know the sort. You probably live in one of these homes yourself - I do.

On the opposite side of this road with it's row of frugal homes are the 100 yard bricked driveways that lead to the 8 and 10 bedroom castles. The acreage is impeccably manicured with lawns that mimic a golf course. It's hard to call them homes... The arched doors at the entry are grand scale for sure... Some could accommodate the passage of a semi-truck. These monoliths come with all the essentials: heated pools, tennis courts 5 car garages - And oh... The most important thing of all: 24 hour security, lest any of the riff-raff wonder on the grounds. Yeah... The contrasts on this street are really in your face.

But there are many other things I see in my conflicting worlds... The seemingly kind woman in the grocery line with her buggy filled with cheeses, eggs and a leg of lamb. The car with a dog in the back seat, waiting in line at a burger joint. The attentive new mother giving her infant a bottle of cow's milk for nourishment. The sweet teen wearing a fur trimmed jacket. Yep, the extremes are around me all the time.

They're especially easy to find on the internet as well as is the case of these stories:

You might have heard about the Tennessee family home that burned while firefighters watched. The photo shows this was "just" a mobile home --- But it was all these folks had.

Position that next to this video released by SHARK showing a pigeon struggling for his life. Just a little bird's life --- But it was all he had.

Empathy for others seem to have it's limits... And extremes. Take for instance this story about Calcutta patients who were abandoned in a hospital as flames engulfed the building. 89 people died.

And then there's this recent study that showed rats would disregard chocolate treats in order to free their cage mates. The article says they show "human like" empathy. Keeping the stories above in mind... And the distinctions between the haves and have-nots.... I don't know that I'd want to insult the rats in such a way as this.

Who's worth what... Who lives and who dies... Who's life has meaning- It may be extreme to say that everyone matters. But I'll take my chances in wanting things to be fair:

As Tom Regan said “But I am an extremist when it comes to rape — I am against it all the time. I am an extremist when it comes to child abuse — I am against it all the time. I am an extremist when it comes to sexual discrimination, racial discrimination — I am against it all the time. I am an extremist when it comes to abuse to the elderly — I am against it all the time.”

Please live a life of extreme kindness - Go Vegan

Dairy Cows: They're Just Mothers Without Their Children

bea.elliott@verizon.net (Bea Elliott) — Sat, 03 Dec 2011 01:52:00 +0000

Remember all the great tunes from therockcookiebottom?

Well here's their newest song: The Truth About Dairy Cows

LYRICS:
I used to think if I didn't eat meat
that I was doing my part
I couldn't give up cheese and dairy
and I didn't see why I should start
After all cows always give milk
to be enjoyed by me and you
I never stopped to question
whether or not that's true

Dairy cows are kept pregnant
just about their entire lives
artificially inseminated
Mooing, lonely wives
giving birth every year, baby
calves just taken away
And that's how you get your cheese
each and every day

cows cows
they're just mothers without their children
cows cows
they are crying out to find them
and it all happens over and over again

the dairy cows children
are separated out
females share their mama's fate
they too will be dairy cows
pumped full of hormones
starting at the age of 1
they normally live to 25
but 5 years of this and they're done

cows cows
they're just mothers without their children
cows cows
they are crying out to find them
and it all happens over and over again

but what about her sons
they got no milk to give
so in the eyes of this system
they got no right to live
They are just a thing left over
Wasted life into a meal
When they end up on a dinner plate
'Cause someone ordered veal

Photo by Jo Anne McArthur

Please drink (and live) responsibly (and kindly)... Go vegan

Tragic Turkey Traditions Turn Into Happy ThanksLiving Wish

bea.elliott@verizon.net (Bea Elliott) — Thu, 24 Nov 2011 06:18:00 +0000

It's the same every year... Mid-November marks when the turkey talk begins. And it doesn't seem to let up till after the New Year. Or at least that's the case with me for the last few years... Ever since I discovered what the traditions really entailed.

And every year you get the assortment of do-it-yourselfers who like to experience the whole bloody mess right in their back yards. I figure that's their way of seizing the Kodak moments and starting new, warm and fuzzy "traditions" to help tide them through their otherwise shallow lives. Ugh! The "shrine" photo just tops them all! :(

So, to counter all the hoopla - If you're eating (and personally killing) turkeys because you just love tradition- You're welcome to serve yourself up a slice of reality with a nostalgic theme:

Manners and etiquette are always good rituals to secure "tradition" to!

And here's a classic 1996 video from Farm Sanctuary.

In the meantime for all those who truly value life. And who are courageous and ingenious enough to start your own traditions... To those who celebrate with care - And live with kindness:

I Wish You a Very, Very Happy ThanksLiving Day!

On Eating Our Friends & Night Terrors - Kids See Murder

bea.elliott@verizon.net (Bea Elliott) — Wed, 09 Nov 2011 12:44:00 +0000

Nicola at Diary of an Animal Lover has started a new series of posts regarding Children and Animals. And with a week of Halloween goblins and ghouls behind us - I thought I'd throw out some questions regarding kids, animals, "meat" and monsters...

Given that most adults have a difficult time reconciling the bloodshed with the burger on their plate, it's no wonder they go through great lengths to "protect" kids as well. And even though I'm not a parent I have a hunch as to the stories told to bury this topic - out of sight, out of mind...

Moms and dads, grandparents, kin and neighbors are all in collusion with Old McDonald's where cow's "let down" their milk, wool and eggs are "given" freely and the pigs are always happily fed! And these innocent images work for a time -

But depending on how inquisitive the child is... As they age the questions for reality become more pressing. Astute kids start formulating the truth in their own heads and it's not a pretty sight! And as one who likes to dabble in armchair psychoanalysis I began to wonder if this might be in part, an explanation as to why some kids have "night terrors".

As a kid I had my own petrifying attacks accompanied by several years of sleep-walking. None of this is terribly uncommon for kids between 4 - 8. Everything I've been able to research attributes these interruptions to several possibilities: diet, irregular bedtimes and emotional distress. I suggest that the emotional distress in lots of kids is the full realization that your nonhuman friends are not only killed but eaten as well!

Most people admit that they hardly recollect the exact time they understood where meat comes from... And then others recall a specific adult telling them "all about it"... In either case - The knowledge of this extremely grave (friend-eating) truth must trigger deep feelings of betrayal... In some sense I'm certain that mistrust and fear are created.

And no wonder! How confusing! How frightening! In one moment adults lovingly teach about soft bunnies and cute calves and then comes the horrible knowledge that consuming them is condoned! Heck... You suddenly realize you've been eating them too!

I think this news is terrible enough to cause nightmares. I simply don't understand why child development professionals don't talk about this more. Sometimes I wonder if they might even be suppressing their own hidden and buried grief about this awful news. (?) Adults in denial - Am I reaching too far? (snort)

I intend to talk about this subject a lot more... It's my own therapy so to speak. Try as I might I can't remember my own childhood discovery about what we do to our friends. But I certainly remember a re-awakening as an adult! And the obvious cure to the ills of eating your friends - Is to Go Vegan! If you have the moral courage of a child that is...

Are You Wearing A Humane Mask?

bea.elliott@verizon.net (Bea Elliott) — Fri, 28 Oct 2011 12:23:00 +0000

A few posts ago I mentioned personal growth... And I'd really like to continue that thought as it's always been at the core of who I think I am.

For as long as I can remember I was always asking questions after "answers" had been presented to me. I was a why-kid. And as an adult I enthusiastically sought out self-help books and tapes and other individual actualization guides. Always a student of pop-psychology, doing inner child work... Reading of ways to improve myself and understand the social structures of the world - I sought works from Gail Sheehy, John Bradshaw, Nathaniel Branden, Erich Fromm, Naomi Wolf, and countless others that would offer analysis of which way to go and why.

In all that I've gleaned, I really believe growth must come from desiring the truth so much that you're willing to return to your initial beliefs and find the doubts that are still there... I think you have to throw out everything you think you know, in order to make room for honest discoveries that form real ideas. Genuine ideas based on the code of values you've developed long after you were given someone else's... After all - There are so many decisions on what's the proper way to live. And choosing the right one - Ought to matter.

A critical thinker cannot lean on the crutch that they do what they do because that's how they were raised. Everyone has a social obligation and an obligation to themselves to figure out their own truths!

But it seems that most people are content with distorted reflections that suit external and pragmatic purposes only.

We disguise and masquerade ourselves with words that define what we want to see ourselves as: kind, compassionate... humane.

But does a kind, generous and benevolent culture wage war on others for material gain? Can we really defend wholesale slaughter of innocent life - Not for survival... But for greed, lust and gluttony?

Is it acceptable to strategically go into the homes of others with weapons?
Does wanting a new shade of eye shadow justify the torture of billions of sentient beings?
Is it okay to desire the fur or skin of some one else?
Does our whim for entertainment excuse stealing babies and enslaving them for our superficial pleasures?
Can we call ourselves kind - Or even rational... If we think it's okay to buy a murdered body when cutting up a few vegetables would serve just as well?

Like I said... I'm the curious one - I reached my conclusions with thought and care. I challenged my preconceived ideas to find a deeper substance than hand-me-down dogma of past generations. I'm not done learning... But I know what kindness is.

This Halloween, might I suggest if you haven't removed your mask of delusions that you do so now? Really examine who you want to be and see if your actions follow through to that end.

If you truly want to be generous, kind, compassionate and humane - Don't be scared! Live as such!

Owning The Circle of Life...

bea.elliott@verizon.net (Bea Elliott) — Wed, 19 Oct 2011 00:20:00 +0000

It's articles like this that always set me on edge... When you read the piece you will see the emotional disconnect of this 4H child as she sends away her "prize sheep" to become a "prize carcass". And the story is always the same... 4H instructors and parents will say it teaches lessons on the circle of life.

I have a few suggestions instead... Have the child rescue a few ten-cent "feeder fish" - Put them in a tank... Care for them... And watch them live. Within a bit of time, one will struggle to swim. It will float to the top... The child will see the desperate way life tries to hold on... And she will understand too that it's the same fight we all eventually loose.

Have the child volunteer to read at a hospice... Have her sit with the elderly to hear their stories told, perhaps for the last time...

Or, have the child adopt a puppy/dog, cat or kitten as we did almost 12 years ago...

My husband and I were at a flea market in North Florida when 3 kids holding 2 litters of kittens approached us with "Wanna kitten?" They were a raggedy bunch of kids and the kittens were even worse... Matted, skinny and sickly --- But despite the cloudiness in his eyes we picked the fluffy white one with the very tiny ears. By the time we journeyed two hours back home he had a name: Touché... And we also realized Touché had a horrible flea infestation.

We tried the immediate fixes... A bath, flea powder... A collar - I'd take him to the vet first thing on Monday for shots and so on. Well, by Sunday night his health was in dire jeopardy. He had diarrhea, difficulty breathing and even standing was an effort. This kitty was sick.

The vet's diagnose wasn't good at all... Flea anemia was a threat to his very tiny body. Beyond transfusions, antibiotics and other measures, I was told his survival would be critical unless he stayed hydrated and fed. So for 10 days every two hours I gave him fluids through an eye dropper and I forced food down his throat. I was not going to let this little fluff ball succumb to the unlucky break of any "disease"!

Well, Touché had the same idea - Within 3 weeks time he was given a clean bill of health... And I was given a $680 bill from the vet. My husband and I joked about our "free" $600 kitten ever since.

And so Touché has lived a good life... He did his share of stalking in the woods, climbing trees, chasing butterflies, sunbathing, getting dozens of sticker-burrs in his silken hair... and slow-dancing with me... Always with the raspy voice - so odd for the delicate looking feline that he was. Fur as soft as anything you could imagine - I always thought "Touche' la bouché" belonged in a penthouse with velvet and satin pillows... Such a fancy guy with his long pantaloons and tufts of silver-fur between his toes... Premier biscuit maker...
God I miss him!

Touché stopped eating a few days ago - A trip to the vet revealed advanced stomach cancer that mastetized to his kidneys. We let him die in his own home with the comfort of his family around him. A few hours ago we laid his body next to his beloved dog-friend Midas, and Houdini his tiger-striped companion who passed two years ago.

Now - Let the people who breed flesh for profit understand this: This is the circle of life! To experience an enriched existence, to love and be loved, to witness the changing of seasons, the feel of frost and the radiance of the sun. To know the trials of age... Slowing down... And relaxing in contentment in a safe, time-worn peaceful spot till it's your forever memory. This full life does not have an ending that is orchestrated for convenience or profit. It isn't arranged according to grain costs or market weight. And it isn't met by some stranger on a blood stained kill-floor!

The loss of this special someone is also felt deeply by family... It is not scuffed off by "excuses" that "you can't keep them all"... While you breed the next batch of commodity-victims to weep for. That pseudo sympathy decorates big-lie Crocodile tears! And I'm calling you on it!

No one learns the circle of life by sending babies off to their death. Those who make a living by doing such, or pay others to do so, ought to own what it's called: The circle of killing.

**********************

Rest in Peace Touche' - You were an exceptional friend... And as sad as it is that you're gone... I'm honored to have shared your world with you. I'd do it again in a heartbeat. Goodbye buddy. :(

Vegans - What They Feel About Us... And Don't Feel For Others

bea.elliott@verizon.net (Bea Elliott) — Sat, 15 Oct 2011 02:51:00 +0000

"Pushy, nosy, hostile, aggressive, in-your-face, sanctimonious, uppity, opinionated, judgmental, rude, obnoxious, busy-body vegans! Why can't they just mind their own business!?!"

That's what many people say... But surely they haven't placed themselves in the skin of others. And if they did - I'm wondering then how would they feel?

It’s a matter of taking the side of the weak against the strong, something the best people have always done.
~Harriet Beecher Stowe

Hey Brutes And Bullies - You Will NOT Stop Our Innate Compassion! Ever!

bea.elliott@verizon.net (Bea Elliott) — Sun, 02 Oct 2011 23:05:00 +0000

Taking a break from the flexing (and vexing) of my personal bubble - - - Thought I'd switch gears to higher ground on what we all universally know --- Or should know: We are all connected...

The compassion we have for other animals is sacred...

Embracing this bond completes us...

And if you don't know these things... If you refuse to recognize the betrayal that culture has made you unwittingly a part of... If you are still using these precious beings for wants and whims... Ask yourself - When did you stop loving them? And why?

Why would you let a bunch of fossilized non-thinkers indoctrinate you and deny you the most special friends you ever had?

Please return to your innate sense of justice and loving compassion...

Live Vegan

On Growth, Loss and Trees -

bea.elliott@verizon.net (Bea Elliott) — Wed, 21 Sep 2011 16:47:00 +0000

The day hurricane Irene skirted past the Florida coast a storm hit my home with a sheer wind of 50+ mph. As circumstances would go... My prized Jacaranda tree was split in two. Half fell on the hen's enclosure. Half on my neighbor's new fence.

Of course I'm very grateful that none of the girls were harmed... They were shaken up - But recovered with the continuation of a somewhat normal schedule...

But the tree half that fell on the fence is an entirely different story that went progressively worse as events unfurled...

Here's the story: For as long as I've lived here there was a shared fence between me and my neighbors. It was covered with jasmine and planted with a row of plumbago.

This past winter my neighbors replaced the fence and in doing so the crew totally destroyed my section of the yard... Not wanting to cause too much fuss... I just replanted the 30 foot area - Out of my pocket and with my labor...

The only thing the crew didn't decimate was my large avocado tree planted in a corner between our two properties...

Avocado and Yellow Tabebuia

Well, the fallen jacaranda caused these neighbors to question the "safety" of their fence should the avocado tree ever fall...

In hind-sight I would have said that's what home-owners insurance is for.
I would have taken a stand like Butterfly did for Luna.
I would have told them, if necessary - to pursue legal action.
I would have been the "stubborn" person I used to be -

Well... On my kitchen counter sits the last avocado from that tree and it carries a bitter lesson learned from introspection.

You see, five years ago I would never have betrayed that tree or my right to it... It was not only my tree... But also my food! But many of my traits have changed since I've taken on issues regarding nonhumans...

I've become overly cautious not to offend to the point where I've lost my assertive edge. Replacing it instead with the desire to do almost anything to be agreeable, friendly, respectful, cooperative, patient, kind, understanding - blah, blah... The thought is: People will never like my vegan message unless they like me first. As a consequence, I find I bend over backwards to please... But like the jacaranda - That bend has it's breaking point too.

I now know that there are people who would cut down trees and cut down sentient life without a single regard to consequences, justice... Or reason. These folks operate on whim and frivolous demands that always involve having their way... And no matter how nicely they are dealt with they won't be happy.

Case in point: After the removal of the avocado tree the "suggestion" that the tangelo tree was also a potential "nuisance"! Ugh!!!

A wicked force of nature denies shade and pretty flowers. A meddling, impossible-to-satisfy-neighbor however, ignites me to re-examine just how amicable I'm willing to be... Because concessions with trees and beings always have a cost... In the future I intend to budget my tolerance much more wisely.

This saga of personal growth will be continued... Along with new plantings and an update on Cleo.

Final note: Since this video both Eunice and Chicklett have passed... They were the original two hens... The first two chickens I ever knew or loved.

Eunice went first... And her sister was never the same afterward. I know for certain she died of a broken heart. She'd never willingly leave the place where Eunice was laid. They are both together again. Rest sweetly my lovely girls...

My Mission - Filming Florida's "Not A Petting Zoo" Farm

bea.elliott@verizon.net (Bea Elliott) — Wed, 07 Sep 2011 23:56:00 +0000

My animal rights group initiated a "film a factory farm" event. I couldn't justify the gas nor could I find anyone to carpool with - So I decided to participate in my own area, by photographing not a large industrial "factory farm", but a small enterprise that uses nonhumans as products and commodities.
A bit of background about the man who operates this place that sells "small farm animals". I've been to his place several times during the last few years. This property is adjacent to a farmers market that sells a nice variety of veggies... On every occasion that I've spoken with this man his attitude has been consistently crass, rude, vulgar and down right hostile. I guess that's why I wanted to document what types of characters run these animal enterprises.

Throughout the dozen or so times I've visited this run-down "farm" the animal "products" have always been in less than ideal conditions; Left without water or food, torn tarps that offer no shelter from weather and absolutely no bedding or nesting material. The only thing in good repair at this place are the chains and locks..

At the onset of our first meeting he warned me that he does not sell "pets". That these animals were for meat or sacrifice only. I winced and said "No thanks" to either because I was a vegan.

From that time on he went out of his way to gleefully tell me about how his business booms, selling to people during their ritual "offerings". He would go into great detail explaining all the religions that do this, that or the other to these animals during their "holy" days. He told me I should go to the graveyards and by the lakes at dawn to see dozens of headless cats and dogs... He is clearly against all "ethnic" groups... But he has no problem exchanging lives for cash. There was always a stock of goats and lambs during Ramadan and other religious events. And of course he carried turkeys, geese and ducks for Thanks-killing day. Now, aside from this... I never instigated any friction. I spoke my mind peaceably... Disagreed with his believes and interacted with what nonhumans he'd allow me to... It never seemed like he minded me on his property.

But this particular day I was there with a camera... Once he saw me filming he demanded I leave. He shouted vulgar things at me with his nose an inch from mine. His daughter, seen in the background also yelled with rage for me to "LEAVE!". I'm certain that had there not been witnesses he would not have "controlled" his temper. His anger was escalated to the point that his body was shaking in a fit. The veins in his face bulged and turned blue... He shouted to me that I was a "liberal - peta - faggot - whore!". Nice...

Still I took what pictures I could as he threatened to call the sheriff. I would have left after these few photos... That was my only intent - To document these beings held for future sacrifice and slaughter. That was my "mission". But I refused to go. Instead I leaned on my car and stated that I was not breaking any law. The property I was on was not his. And it was not illegal to take photos of any "farm" or farmed animal.

Sure enough within minutes a car pulled up and I was asked what my intentions were of photographing his place. I affirmed that it was only to document what a place that "sells" animals for future killing looked like. I also offered my name, address, age, height, etc. I wanted it to be clear that I was totally cooperative - And rational.

After a few minutes I began my plea about how these chickens and ducks are no different than any other being. How everyone just wants to live and how none of us has the right to take someone elses life... I assured him that my intentions were just to create a more peaceful world. And that the idea of violence or aggression against anyone was not my goal at all. After he listened a while... He called in some code that said I was not a threat... And that he didn't need back up...

I talked a bit more about compassion... And how we all really have empathy for others - It's just that our culture discourages us from acting on it... After my short out pouring he told me that his wife was almost a "vegetarian" and how he thought about it too (for his health). !!! Meanwhile, I am smiling my charm ear to ear as I hand him a copy of Why Vegan and Mr. Mean Farm-man is seething over our unexpected pleasant exchange! Ha! LMAO!

So a minute or two later, I extended my sincere apology for upsetting things. I asked if he would convey that to Mean Farm-man... I was also advised not to test my welcome there again. And that's fair enough - There's nothing I want there anyway, except for the liberty of these animals on death row. :(

I said "thank you" and left.

Now... Between us - Can I tell you I was afraid? That at some point I didn't really know what Mean Farm-man was capable of? That my knees were nervous... And that as I waited for officials to arrive I ran through all sorts of bad scenarios and the possibility of arrest went through my head. After all... This is Polk County with Grady Judd at the helm of "the law". And my confidence in any "justice" system is holding on by a very frayed thread.

The thing about it is... You don't always have to be breaking a law to have your life put on hold or burdened with unimaginable debt to prove your innocence. That is why I wrote this entry about admiring those who risk so much in direct actions that do have known consequences. My little piss-ant encounters illustrate to me that those who risk so much more... And accomplish the actual liberation of victims, truly deserve accolades. I do not believe they are "terrorists" when they break locks or destroy property in order to rescue prisoners and slaves. I will not ever be one to harshly judge that their actions jeopardize the public's perception on animal rights because honestly, if these people aren't sympathetic to the caged pigs and chickens... They will hardly be moved with empathy at the meat cases either.

I admit openly that I haven't the courage or chutzpah it takes to lay my life, safety or freedom on the line... But for those who go beyond what I fear - - - They are heroes in my eyes...

Meat Eating Is Old Fashioned - Today's Vegan Stories

bea.elliott@verizon.net (Bea Elliott) — Wed, 17 Aug 2011 20:01:00 +0000

Years ago, when I came out as a vegan I had a conversation with a (then) good friend... After I cried tears of regret and guilt on the "not knowing" this usually gentle and supportive friend told me flat out: The world will never go vegetarian (read:vegan)!

Of course in time, I've come to learn that really what she was saying was that she wouldn't ever. And that's her choice, and fine too... But here's what I've also come to figure out about her narrow views on what will or won't, could or can't, change in the world.

Many times we look back to historical examples of how change comes to be... Like with slavery or the women's suffragette movement. Instead, if my friend and I were still speaking today... Here's what I'd like to let her know about how the world does, can and will change in a relatively short period of time:

50 years ago:
Inter-racial marriage was almost unheard of.
In fact, people wanted to segregate toilets, even in their own homes:

50 years ago:
Doctors endorsed cigarettes.
Being divorced was kept secret.
Single parenting was a rare exception.
Only twin beds were acceptable on screen.
Corporal punishment was standard child rearing.
And it was also not unusual to "knock the wife around" on occasion.

40 years ago:
A woman's character might be determined by how straight the seams in her stockings were.
Most "decent" women didn't wear pants and always wore a bra.
No self-respecting woman would go without a "girdle" no matter how slim she was.
Shoes matched hats, matched purses, matched gloves, matched the ensemble.
Men wore "fedoras". Tipped them for the ladies. And always stood when a women entered the room.

As I recall, even piercing one's ear (even once) was a non-conventional thing to do 35 or so years ago. Tatoos were strictly reserved for "ruffian" guys... And now, it's not uncommon at all for guys and gals to have multiple tats and piercings - And no one thinks a thing of it!

30 years ago there was no such thing as "gay pride".
20 years ago there was no such thing as transgender or transsexuals.

My list could go on and on - But I think I've made my point that social norms constantly change and adapt accordingly. How technology and information has reshaped us is proof enough to say that an ill-conceived, cruel and primitive habit such as flesh eating won't last much longer. Only fossilized minds that are stuck in the primordial goo of antiquated habits hold on to such denial! I know the reason these self deceptions work for them...

They are who Tom Regan describes as the muddlers. The one's who shift along and resist enlightenment every step of the way... But move they will. There's no stopping change, especially for the better. ;)

And so now, I'd like to take this opportunity to add the following to my list of vegan stories that are noted on my sidebar:
Tracing My Own Personal Food Route By Robert Grillo
How I became a Vegetarian Via Earthlings By Jaclyn Glenn

Warped Tour Opened My Eyes! By Dayna Moot

Why I Am Vegan p000

Many more at the Thinking Vegan

Why I am vegan by xXLizzyLoserXx

Vegan Digital Story

WHY IM A VEGAN by TheJUNGLESURFER

My Story & Answers To Going Vegan & Living Cruelty Free

A video for all of you wondering why Vegan!

Why to become a Vegetarian by eldiagrama

Interview: A Lifelong Vegan by veganforum

I'm A Vegetarian, But Why?... FargoJ02

Vegan Bodybuilder Robert Cheeke at Animal Rights Conference 2009

Reason 1 for being Vegan by artificial 1982

Being vegan, a how to and why...by hautmess
Vegan benefits for guys by shelbybond
Why i became a vegan by johnnyb34434
Why I'm Vegetarian by TisxDebbehxYo
Living the Vegan Life at Vegan Bits
Why I became a vegan by ValeDocet
Bill Clinton on a (mostly) Vegan Diet
Why Am I Vegetarian? by markmywords09
How I Became a Vegan Dietitian by GINNY MESSINA
How i became a Vegan by tongolelelela
John Salley on Animals as Food
Yes, I'm A Vegetarian by ninacromeyer
Linda Blair "Going Vegan"
Why I am a vegetarian by Sunny5MA
My Journey to Ethical Veganism by Victoria Moran
I went VEGAN and I"M STILL ALIVE by Ryans182
Dennis Kucinich-Vegan
Why I'm Vegetarian by keithzworld
THE EARLY DAYS OF MY VEGAN JOURNEY by grassrootsvegan
Cove Reber on being a vegetarian
Why I am Vegan by Bobby Lovelace
Why I'm a Vegetarian by LicoriceStraps
Animal Liberation Victoria - Interview with Philip Wollen
Eat a Meal - Save an Animal by barbnoon1
Why We're Vegan and Vegetarian by MiaKaitlyn
Vegan Triathlete Rich Roll by PETA
Bodhipaksa: Why I'm a vegetarian
Norm Phelps - The Day That Changed Everything
Voices of Veganism
Living My Truth-How and Why I Became Vegan by Ammendoz81
Eric - Why I'm a vegetarian
Making the Connection - Why Vegan ? by VeganTruth
Karunasara: Why I'm a vegetarian
I am vegetarian Apn9a
My Path To Vegan Eating
14 Stories at the Vegan DocumentaryWhy I am a vegetarian by ferechi
Why am I Vegan? by porolita22
Activists Profiles from Vegan Outreach
Yes, I'm a Vegetarian by zombiescribbles
Ann McGee Cooper - Vegan Story
Gwen's Vigil Bearing Witness
Russell Simmons Talks About Why He is Vegan
This is why I am VEGAN... meatSux79
Why I am a vegan by runscape8
My Vegan Awakening by Beverly
Stop killing animals... By JENNIFER GNANA
Why I'm a Vegetarian VegHeadVic
Why I'm a Vegan by VegBeauty
The People Project
I'm A Vegetarian Now by mbaya
Vegan - Why I went vegan by marcluc1988
Why I'm a vegetarian by alspresso
Why I Choose to be a Vegan

Why I Became a Vegan by Lisa Fine I

Emily Deschanel Vegan Testimonial by haydenvegan

Today, for every story and video above, there are countless others unmentioned... These are a collection of famous and simple people... Old and young... Americans... Europeans... Canadians... Australians, etc. Most of these stories represent personal change within the last 10 or so years. Some because of health reasons, a few for the environment and many because of animal rights issues.

And here is a collection of stories by strong men who had the courage to take a stand on their ethical values:

Point is: Anyone (friend or not) who says that the world will NEVER go "veg" aren't savvy enough with the issues, or progressive change, to know the many compelling reasons that will indeed exclude flesh-eating... someday.

Survey: 21% of U.S. college students limit meat consumption
So while most of us say now, that our grandparents and we once ate animals... Doesn't mean tomorrow's kids will - Or that they'd be proud of that heritage either.

Friend... A word to the wise: The only thing that is certain is change.
Vegan Mainstream

They Market Happy Meat! Don't Buy The Myth!

bea.elliott@verizon.net (Bea Elliott) — Sun, 07 Aug 2011 22:46:00 +0000

For a week or so after my encounter with a scalper's knife... My typing was limited to hunt and peck techniques. I could also drag/copy/paste a whole lot of files into a movies and this is one that I made:

Here's another similar themed video by quicksilver3x3:

I don't know that either is a "vegan maker"... Perhaps they are just meant for an audience who already "gets it"? But you never know who may grasp a message when presented with sarcasm. The extremes of what we're told and what the truth is just might shake someone into reality? We can only hope...

This post practically wrote it's self so I'll keep it short and (maybe not so) "sweet" as I know there are more pressing issues I want to continue discussing elsewhere.

My brief thought here was to remind everyone that no matter how you get the word out... Keep the truth piling on! And of course if your not vegan already... Surely you're not swallowing the "happy meat myth" - Now are you???

Vegans Know The Animal Perspective - Empathy Trumps Civility

bea.elliott@verizon.net (Bea Elliott) — Sun, 31 Jul 2011 23:23:00 +0000

On my Provoked blog I made an entry that mentions viewing history in an animal perspective. Now I know that what Steve Best spoke of and what I'm about to write are different - Still, the idea of viewing life or circumstances through a subjective viewpoint brings these two ideas together for me on this post.

So while the memories are still fresh, I wanted to tell of this minor surgery I recently had done to my shoulder... And my "animal" experiences during the time I was "processed".

First, a disclaimer - I'm not one who has had many medical operations or procedures... The only other cause for me to "go under a knife" was the removal of my tonsils as a kid - So, I grant that any experience with being in the vulnerable physical control of others is new to me. Perhaps this is why my "animal insights" were so intense?

After check in I was fitted with assorted equipment that would monitor vitals, keep tabs on my breathing, heart rate, etc. While I was on the gurney surrounded by strangers who were touching, (poking and prodding) me, I couldn't help but relate that this is what a nonhuman must feel like - Somewhat helpless and apprehensive to say the least. Still, I was there with consent and had the comfort of rationality to ease any distress. Yes, nonhumans left in the clutches of man endure much anxiety.

Once I was undressed and "prepped" the cluster of staff and aids wheeled me away from my waiting station and halfway to O.R. the last injection I was given put me out... Of course I was never awake for the worst of it... But somewhere in my mind I knew that my animal friends were not so fortunate in their ordeal with the unfamiliar, the frightening and the torturous.

It would be a short time afterward before I became lucid... And in that in between state of being half aware and half drugged, many people respond in different ways. Behind the curtains at other post-op stations one could hear a woman in a fret over lost keys, an elderly gentleman was arguing about a parking ticket... And I even heard someone cry over a no-show prom date - Yet none of us was younger than in our 40's.

But my semi-conscious wailing was even more unique and unexpected... So much so that they called my husband in pre-maturely to "settle me down". What was I ranting about? The animals of course! The caged, imprisoned ones. The trapped ones in chains... The ones suffocated at birth... The ones dragged away from their mothers. The ones that were beaten in factory farms and the ones delivered to the slaughterhouses. Yep, those all too familiar desperate scenes that have shaped my outlook for the last few years was vehemently vocalized - Even through the disorientation of drugs and anesthetics.

Now... It's not odd that this would be at the forefront of my mind - I've heard many say that even in dreams the plight of nonhumans is an inescapable issue. But what is note worthy is the reaction of the nurses and staff that were my guides from one fuzzy reality into the socially condoned (fuzzy) one... The "civilized" one, where one dares not talk about such things - Especially not with unchecked emotion and blunt truth.

So it is the conduct of the staff from then on, revealing our culture's disconnect with their own sense of reality, that I write about...

Prior to my surgery everyone was personable, considerate and attentive. Yet afterwards as I was being re-examined and made ready-for-release, I sensed an abrupt, aloof, callous distance from the very same people I was joking and smiling with a few hours before... It was obvious I became a different person to them - I became one who was a "threat" to their false-notion that humans are kind to animals... And I exposed that the harms that come to nonhumans really are institutionalized brutality. And that not only is murdering the innocent chronic in our culture, but pragmatically buried away from our "sensitivities".

Yes, my genuine concern bled through my un-awake state... And it shed a light on to their indoctrinations. It revealed cruelties habituated from dead hearts and/or blind minds. Even a week later, my once cordial physician had an unusual air of terseness. My imagination? Perhaps, but doubtful as it's no secret that patient reactions before and after surgery - comical or sorrowful - are discussed among professionals.

And now, as my arm heals and I literally and figuratively move in different ways... My experiences of being a subject, placed in submissive circumstances, "man handled" and then marginalized only reaffirms what I already knew about our nonhuman friends. That what they experience at our will and for our whim, as an everyday "norm", is a relentless trauma to them. Historically the whole of what the animal nations have tragically endured puts them, in my eyes, ever more deserving of the respect we now withhold.

Is there an outside hope that someone listening to my incoherent concerns decided to think or investigate further? Better yet... Is there someone here reading this now making the connection? Please, if you are not already on their side... If you are not already vegan... I urge and implore you - That now is the time to be so. You have no idea how not doing so violates these very innocent beings...

Want A Compassionate World? There's No Debate... Vegan's The Way!

bea.elliott@verizon.net (Bea Elliott) — Thu, 14 Jul 2011 05:18:00 +0000

How can we say we are the most advanced species on earth when we continually choose profits over principles? How can we say we are the most advanced species on earth when we use and abuse animals when alternatives are available?
~Colleen Patrick Goudreau

We can be anywhere in the food chain that we want to be. Food chain defenses basically are a version of "might makes right," which runs counter to basic moral principles.
~Gary Loewenthal

Hear more of what Colleen Patrick Goudreau & Gary Loewenthal have to say in advocating the wisdom of a compassionate world. Details here.

Un-July 4th * Celebrate Peace - Go Vegan *

bea.elliott@verizon.net (Bea Elliott) — Mon, 04 Jul 2011 17:33:00 +0000

Yes, I am sending out a message of distress at what I see happening to a country that I once would have defended, even at the cost of my life... You see, I was always proud to be a first born American. I was what I thought to be a defender of justice through my Libertarian Party membership. I burned my social security card in protest of a failed system... And in a demonstration I portrayed the Statue of Liberty sporting a black eye... This was done to convey the urgency that something was terribly wrong with the way we operate our country. Wrong in what we value. Wrong in carrying on the charade of being a "proud" American.

Many decades and political parties later, I still ask myself: What exactly is it that we should be so proud of?

This July 4th ought to remind us that while the colonists were taking steps to secure their freedom - They simultaneously enslaved blacks and seized every bit of earth the First Nations called home. In the years to follow, we'd engage in bloody battles with Mexico, another civilization trampled by our domination and self-proclaimed manifest destiny.

'Manifest Destiny' John Gast (1872)

Then after we'd conquer everything within "our" borders we went across oceans into foreign lands to profit from resources there, that were "ours" too. All this to give the wealthiest nation more cheap oil and other goodies that go to the victor.

To our shame we should also acknowledge that we sent our own citizens "Japs" as they were called, into internment camps.

And If anyone doubts our history of consumer driven "prosperous" wars - thumb through the 1972 issue of Life magazine and see the array of ads for cars, liquor, cigarettes and ironically, life insurance.

It should have been a sure sign to us all what the agenda of war is when we were encouraged to "shop" after the 9/11 event. Yes, we needed to spend worthless money for frivolous things... Lest our American way were to un-ravel.

Sadly, in material ways I probably have benefited... But it was without my knowledge that my "stuff" came at great cost to others. I was able to want the spoils without the recognition that they were gotten through corruption, wars and violence. I was a good (dumb) consumer. Happily shielded from seeing the child without legs lost to a land mine, as I was purchasing a "cheap" pair of sneakers. Because of a compromised media - it's so easy to not know how our vicious national acts, oppresses every bit of peace other (smaller, lesser, insignificant, defenseless) countries have. Aside from destroying human lives - our American consumer ideology, has become a global model - Causing our planet environmental disaster as well.

.

And the same has to be true in our bliss and denial of what our species does to inflict endless violence on nonhumans as well... They suffer through our greedy wars too - Meat fuels armies:

And even in "peace" through destruction of habitat and the insatiable "use" of their bodies, it's clear that we've been at war with "them" since before recorded time.

So on this day in July that is after the 3rd and before the 5th - I speak out in protest of the bizarre, half-witted notions of what deserves celebration and pride. So the un-aware today will seek comforts in the sales, blank out the realities with glittering fireworks, and roast sacrificed bodies on a grill. I'd tell them what else they could throw upon the fire... But oh yeah, that's illegal -

I'll have no part of it. I declare that I have no weapons - And I want no fight against any of my fellow Earthlings.

Celebrate Peace... Go Vegan

Children Carefully Taught To Backward Speciesist Thinking

bea.elliott@verizon.net (Bea Elliott) — Tue, 28 Jun 2011 05:21:00 +0000

A first grader won a drawing contest promoted by the Idaho Beef Council. In this image there's a man extracting milk from a cow's udders - They are standing on green grass in front of a red barn. Riding on the rainbow that extends the mountain ranges are depictions of a pizza, an ice cream cone, a glass of milk, a burger and items made of meat.

Now... I know this is young child was not born into thinking that the cows were meant for such "productions". I know this young girl wasn't told the whole story of how the cows and their babies are killed. She wasn't told about the force and might used in the making of dairy and flesh... She wasn't told that there are other choices to make --- But I'm most certainly sure she was told that the cows are happily here for us to use:

So her artistic work won the Cattle are Amazing contest giving her a $100 certificate for toys and a field trip for her class to go to a cattle ranch. (amazing) :/

And so (not) astute are these Beef Council folks that not only have they restricted clear thinking in this little girl's mind - But they also presented her work in reverse as well!

Guess that's okay... The "products" are all there. I'm certain too - That they don't care at all that her emotional intelligence is directed "backwards" as well.

Parents: Children will listen - Please teach them respect, compassion and kindness. Don't teach them hatred for other species. Please live justly - So they will do the same.

On Fathers Who Kill And Fathers Who Heal

bea.elliott@verizon.net (Bea Elliott) — Mon, 20 Jun 2011 02:13:00 +0000

Here is a story about a father who had a lovely child who also grew up to have a beautiful children as well.

But... "What was supposed to be an enjoyable evening of rabbit hunting with Grandpa took a tragic turn for a 9-year-old Lubbock girl." (emphasis mine).

This man was also said to be a "spirtual leader" in the community.

But this cannot be so! A "spiritual leader" does not corrupt the essential loving nature of a child. A "spiritual leader" does not inflict unnecessary harm to the innocent. A "spiritual leader" does not condone frivolous, acts of violence.

On this father's day - I choose to acknowledge just a few of the men who I consider to be honest guides in the quest for spiritual enlightenment. Men who cherish peace and nonviolence. Men who are strong enough to be thoughtful. Men who are courageous enough to be kind.

MEN WHO ARE FATHERS IN THE ANIMAL RIGHTS MOVEMENT:

Part 2 and more videos/information about Tom Regan can be found here:
Tom Regan's Animal Rights and Writes

Will Tuttle author of the World Peace Diet and Go Vegan Radio founder/host Bob Linden discuss the fallacy of male dominance and the damage done to our culture because of it.
Masculinity - How it effects young boys and animals in our society

Gary Francione - Father to the Abolitionist Approach

I'm Vegan: Gary Francione from Eric Prescott on Vimeo.

And there are countless other figures and "fathers" who I respect, because their message and actions do not condone needless killing - But rather promote a gentler, kinder world.

So... to those who see hunting as a "sport" - To those who have no problem warping the authentic pure nature of a child... To those who spread and live the lie of "dominance by destruction" - Your deeds are reckless and poisonous. And just like the father who planned the killing of a rabbit - Sometimes the cost of doing so is paid by unintended victims.

It would have been better had this man cherished the things worthy of value...
On this Father's Day and for the ones that follow - It would have been a sweeter outcome for all...

Sticker Shock - And My Tribute To One Pig

bea.elliott@verizon.net (Bea Elliott) — Wed, 18 May 2011 06:11:00 +0000

The first time I saw a pig in a cage... I knew immediately that this was wrong. I didn't need to check with an "authority" or anyone who might explain (or excuse) why that pig was in a cage. Without the help of words my mind clearly saw this pig as a victim. Foolishly, I thought at first, that there must be "laws" against this sort of captivity of an animal. Then I discovered this one guy wasn't the only "one"... That there were thousands, billions more, also being confined. Suddenly I had a total awareness of "flesh-growing" and "meat-eating". It was like as if someone poured the whole core of truth instantly into my head - And I knew in that moment that I'd fight the rest of my life to undo this terrible wrong.

Of course in order to fight more, I had to learn more. And feel more.

And one of the hardest things for me was to own my zombie-like participation at the meat cases... It meant I had to remember how I pawed through the packages looking to find that "pretty" piece... The veins, the marbling, the fat... It all escaped me then that it was dead tissue I had been examining. "Killed" dead tissue by my order.

Yeah my ignorance was firmly rooted in indoctrination... I never really thought about the process or the numbers. I guess in my mind I thought there was some one animal somewhere: One pig. One chicken. One Cow... And one sacrificial lamb that provided all the meat everyone was eating. And that was only after he/she died of old age... Or at best was "put to sleep" with a painless needle.

So now that I've confessed how really dumb I was - I will also say this: My brain and rationality have always functioned just fine! Given the correct information I'm quite capable of sorting out logical conclusions. But there are things that we're conditioned not to see and therefore not to question... The "carcass" on my plate was invisible to me... The "answers" to unasked questions provided every distraction to remain unseen.

*****************************

But then there was that one caged pig and this opened up a flood-gate of previously obscured "cold hard facts" and "data" about the fattening and slaughter of "food animals". We've all been there haven't we? While learning about "factory farms" the number "10 billion" takes on new meaning. How much water and crops it takes to grow them... The 75% of antibiotics they are fed... We even learn of the bazillion gallons of "stored" excrement. This "sticker shock" was my initiation.

And even though I've developed coping stratagies - Every now and these figures still come out front and center. And I wanted to document just a portion of the carnage. The ocean of bloodshed:

Beef exports during March totaled 245.288 million pounds
March pork exports hit 217,025 metric tons
Illegal Net Filled With 3 Tons of Fish
1,786,859 pounds of meat was recalled from stores across America in 2010
And internationally:

Serbia exported only 1,200 tons of beef to the EU market last year

Hundreds of thousands of chickens buried alive

One million pigs buried alive

350 Thousand pigs buried in Egypt

4 million sheep transported to the Middle East every year

And then there's that ever growing list of animals burned alive to which I add: 11,000 Chickens Killed in Arkansas Coop Fire

*****************************

I guess my point here is to pay tribute to that one caged pig... And to the one person who took the photo... And the one person who placed it somewhere on the web where I found it and connected to the larger picture. Sincerely I hope that someone else will see it too - Really "see" it! And do whatever they can to make someone else see - And so on. For surely, if it is unbearable to witness and know about the one - What of the holocaust of numbers that are a reality?

Still not moved? Watch Earthlings and broaden your view.

A Mother's Devotion - As Intense For Animals As For Humans

bea.elliott@verizon.net (Bea Elliott) — Thu, 05 May 2011 13:29:00 +0000

Soon it's Mother's Day and who can get enough videos and images of maternal perfection and tender young innocence!

***********************

Now, no one has to watch 10 videos or even one for that matter, to know that this nurturing bond is instinctual and is the same for every species. I even imagine that with nonhuman animals this desire to protect, nurse, and "mother" is even more intense than with humans. Human mothers have a multitude of distractions like telephone calls from well wishers, emails to answer, shopping lists, favorite television shows, assorted hobbies they may retreat to, and many even have "jobs" that they must return to. So the focus on baby, while intense - Doesn't hold the same 24 hour "devotion" as it does with animals.

This causes baby-making in their non-human world to be slightly different than our own. That said, knowing how very important their infants are to them... Wouldn't you think we'd show a bit more reverence for that? It is, aside from their lives, all that they have!

So please if you are eating animal products, remember that the entire industry hinges on the separation of mother and baby. It is a standard course for the way they operate. None of the "production animals" ever get to experience the maternal drives many humans take for granted.

And as you watch over your own child - With love and tenderness... Won't you take a moment to consider the needs and wants of these animal-mothers too? Do not pay men to rip suckling calves from their mothers... Do not sanction sows in crates that separate them from their newborn piglets... Do not condone housing hens as (fertile or unfertile) egg laying machines. Don't support any practice that defiles this sacred bond between a mother and her young. Please?

Happy Mother's Day to all who nurture Life!

Silly Easter Hats and Eating My Bunny ~ What's Food & Who's Not

bea.elliott@verizon.net (Bea Elliott) — Sun, 24 Apr 2011 13:22:00 +0000

Yep, that's me in my Easter bonnet! I guess I was 7 or so when this was taken. I'm sure I thought I was real "chic" to not put my arms in my coat... And don't ask what I'm holding! But I think it was a doll...

I do remember one thing very clearly about Easter though, maybe it was the year this photo was taken or the one before. I remember I refused to eat my gorgeous chocolate bunny that held center stage in a modest basket. You see, my little mind was very certain that this was an animal and I knew animals shouldn't be harmed. So long after the cream-filled eggs, jellybeans were gone - the bunny remained in the basket, isolated in the sea of plastic grass surrounding him.

It probably was a lonely sight and after a few days, when the holiday glow disappeared, I remember my Mom asked me, "Aren't you going to eat your bunny?". I told her no and my reason why. I remember she laughed... I guess it was cute. A child still too young to completely grasp the nature of inanimate things afraid to harm a chocolate bunny... Yes, I laugh too, looking back at it. (Kids say the darnedest things.)

I was reassured that it wouldn't hurt "him"... And that he wasn't "real". I was comforted by this and took a huge chunk right out of his ear tips... Each delicious bite confirmed that everything was well in the world.

But what happened was a "secret" sin of omission. I know this because that's what was inside my head. While I was being convinced that I wasn't causing ill to Mr. (milk) Chocolate Rabbit, the unspoken hidden affair of eating cows, pigs and chickens remained untouched. It was as if in that chocolate bunny, I was allowed to bury or transfer all worry and responsibility of harming any other "food" animal too! In a way I think this is when I first embraced a "denial" for eating every animal afterwards. Somehow I persuaded my gut emotions, to suppress any further questions. I think this was the first time I began to think like an "adult" about my food... I didn't want to know.

I know, call me overly suspicious, delusional and even paranoid, but in a way I think molding bunnies into chocolate is part of the indoctrination process. It's an easy leap for a kid to make: Eating bunnies or marshmellow "peeps" is a first step to disconnecting... But I'm glad that eventually and finally, my genuine curiosity caught up to my child-hood "hunch". I did not think it was right to harm animals then... And I certainly am sure of this now!

Have a sweet Easter everybody!
And if you're aren't eating thoughtfully --- Then please! Hop to it now! ;)