Wednesday, February 15, 2012

Vegan Revisited

Okay.  I've been reading some more books.  Watching some more videos.  More and more I am convinced that eating vegan or at least vegetarian is a good thing, health-wise.  But then there's the whole "This is how I've eaten my whole life" thing.  Hamburgers.  Steak.  Grilled chicken.  Some of my favorite foods.  Some of your favorite foods.  Favorite foods of all the people who invite me over for dinner.  Favorite foods of the ladies who bring food to the church pot-lucks.

For me, the social aspects are the biggest obstacle.  But maybe, like the other things I've worried about since starting this journey, it won't be such a big deal.  My sister suggested that I go vegan for Lent.  A six week trial.  I like it!  People are more understanding about changes you make during Lent.  Lent begins a week from today.  That gives me some time to get my pantry ready - time to study recipes.  The proponents of this eating lifestyle tell me that at the end of the six weeks I won't want to go back.  I could lose 10 pounds.  I'll have more energy and feel better.  I'll still be on Weight Watchers and counting points.  That will be interesting since fruits and vegetables have zero points!

Maybe the bigger question is, "Who has the right to decide what I am going to eat?"  I have given that right to so many people.  Basically, if someone puts food within reach, I eat it.  Doesn't matter if it's good for me or not.  Sometimes it doesn't even matter if it tastes good.  It's just there.  My seven months on Weight Watchers has taught me to restrain my "eat-it" reflex when I'm around food.  But what if the changes I need to make are more fundamental than simply restricting how much I eat?  What if the doorway to health and freedom is in restricting the kinds of food I choose to eat?

So it looks like I'll be taking the Daniel Challenge (Daniel 1:8-16).  He only asked for a ten day test and I'm talking about six weeks, but I don't think I am going to starve or anything.

Hugs.

1 comment:

  1. Hi Cindy,

    Sounds like a plan to me! You sent me right to the Bible to read this passage, and is it ever perfect. It will be a great way to spend Lent, too. Focusing on Christ with a Daniel attitude. You inspire me!

    Love you,
    Your sister

    ReplyDelete

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