Happy Tummy

Not sure if I had to point this out, but that example I provided was made up.
— April 13, 2009 3:50 p.m.

Happy Tummy

Thanks to refriedgringo for providing that definition: "Diary: A daily written record of (usually personal) experiences and observations." Yes, personal experiences. It’s not like we’re asking you to end world hunger or cure cancer. We merely want an example of your experience with the few militant vegans upon which you base your opinion, as you provided for the other two cubbyholes – no names are necessary. Mike1’s posts don’t count as they are a reaction to your article. You can’t wave something red at a bull and not expect it to charge. Are people (and I say “people” because it’s not just vegans or vegetarians) upset with this article? Yes, and they will speak their mind, some passionately, but don’t say, “See? This is what I mean” when you’ve provoked that very response. That’s not fair. I think this is what joshb was talking about. Often, it is a response to some sort of provocation. For example, “I was shopping at Whole Foods, minding my own business, when a militant vegan accosted me, shaking his/her finger and telling me I was wrong to have meat and cheese in my cart.” This, I would understand. But, based on sneers and assumptions of the thoughts and intentions of others do not strike me as solid examples, which again, was provided for the other two “types”.
— April 13, 2009 3:48 p.m.

Happy Tummy

Barbarella, Look, there's no need to diva out on your readers. This is the same snarky tone I got from the article. Please read my comment more carefully. I never accused YOU of being anti-vegan/vegetarian. I said that this type of article only perpetuates this sentiment, as evidenced by certain comments above. I also have to point out that if ALL these people don't "comprende", the common denominator is you. You have had to come back repeatedly to say we "missed the point" and your husband had to make a comment trying to explain what you really meant. Obviously you didn't express your thoughts clearly enough the first time. Again, you say you know all these militant vegans, but no real example of how they accosted you. Real anecdote, please.
— April 12, 2009 2:15 p.m.

Happy Tummy

1) I think that this article perpetuates anti-vegan/vegetarian sentiment and breeds ignorance, already proven by such comments as ruining a brownie because it’s vegan. I’m so tired of seeing people react this way over and over again to vegan food and I’m not even vegetarian or vegan. The worst part is this judgment comes before even trying it (in vegan brownie’s case, not even knowing what it is)! This type of statement screams ignorance to me – to the point where I feel ashamed on their behalf. Let’s not contribute to the ignorant American stereotype. Just remember, if you’re not part of the solution, you’re part of the problem. 2) In “Horribly Obsessed”, you mention that when you find something you like, you want all your friends to try it/experience it, like that Starlite burger. In fact, this is your quote from the video clip, “I’m not satisfied until everyone tries it and agrees that it’s one of the tastiest burgers in town. I like to share what I think is good so that others might experience some of my enjoyment.” (http://bit.ly/MbuE) Couldn’t it be that vegetarians and vegans share this passion (or obsession) with you and only want to share their discoveries with their friends? Why is it okay for you to be enthusiastic about something but when veg/vegans talk about their diet it’s preachy? Is it possible that you might have misread their intentions? Or is it preachy because you don’t agree with it? 3) If the only example of militant vegans you can come up with are people who sneer at you while shopping at Whole Foods and Trader Joe’s, that’s pretty unfair. How do you know these strangers are vegan? Maybe they just don’t like your outfit. How can you make such a judgment based on a sneer? I know a lot of veg/vegans and just like other people have said in their comments, don’t know any that match your descriptions.
— April 11, 2009 7:45 p.m.