Animal Rights/Vegan Activists' Strategies Articles

When I Share that Cows Are my Friends

From Renee King-Sonnen, Rowdy Girl Sanctuary
Facebook posting, June 8, 2023

I know some funny, bright-as-heck, and fiercely kind men and women. And yet, they’re not vegan! It hurts my head and my heart that these wonderful folks refuse to look beyond their cultural conditioning to share in the beauty of this philosophy and lifestyle.

I am sad, y’all! Especially when people I love with my whole heart just can’t wrap their minds and hearts around why they shouldn’t eat animals. It creates a schism in my brain. I love this person something fierce but I can’t abide what they do.

It’s hardest with friends and family. I can talk all day to a stranger about my feelings and opinions. I can hear them out and push back but when it comes to the people closest to me, it is a whole different thing. We’ve got a whole long history based on culture and tradition and isn’t it funny that sometimes people are more likely to listen to a stranger than a family member? I know some funny, bright-as-heck, and fiercely kind men and women. And yet, they’re not vegan! It hurts my head and my heart that these wonderful folks refuse to look beyond their cultural conditioning to share in the beauty of this philosophy and lifestyle. I know it would be good for them on every level, it would be good for our relationship and it would be amazing for the animals!

I have gotten used to this sadness and I don’t let it stop me. I talk to the folks who get it, who lift me up, I talk to the animals, I keep my mind and body clear with yoga and good food and I remember that Ahimsa applies to everyone, even those with whom we don’t see eye-to-eye.

To the folks who continue to support the murder of innocent animals: I pray for you to experience the gift of waking up from the delusions of carnism. I will remain patient, steady and working for change in every avenue I can and to whomever will listen. With the animals always in my heart.

Rowdy Girl Sanctuary is committed to waking up the masses to a new way of existence - one in which we are in harmony with animals and nature, not at war. If you want to help support our efforts, please become a MEMBER. We need you and every little bit helps.

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