I write this entry, not as a preacher but simply prompted by a talk radio programme.

As a child I would eat meat as that’s what my parents did. As I got older I started to analyse things more and began to question why it was important, or not, to kill animals.

I had a few thoughts. First, I saw the similarity of argument about drug usage; drug users create a demand. That was true of meat eaters; animals grown, killed and eaten according to supply and demand.

Secondly, it was clear to me that animal-to-human diseases were actually quite frequent throughout history (BSE etc). It was in stark contrast to the idea that “humans have always eaten animals and it’s therefore okay”. I mean, if it was so natural, why so many problems? And when those breakouts occurred, tens of thousands of animals would be killed.

I also realised that I was living in a modern age and location that no longer required the “goodness” of meat. If there were any deficiencies in a meatless diet, I could simply fill those spots with vitamins. And I also accepted, even if I lived a shorter life as a result of this change, I would at least resolve that I did the right thing.

The most important aspect for me, however, was a realisation; the difference between what I am capable of doing in one sense and what my mind can logically determine as good or bad. If you like, we all have an independence of mind.

I try to respect that independence. A meat eater has simply not found clarity yet. That’s why on this issue I almost never preach my position, I simply respond when asked.

One last thought.. the panda was once a meat eater and turned vegetarian because of it’s environment.