Veganniversary: Year Five

Five years vegan. Half a decade. What a journey.

When I completed my transition to veganism (and really, is that transition ever complete? There’s so much to learn, to realize, to think about), Thanksgiving seemed like the perfect time to honor that transition each year. This particular awakening has brought some great beings, both human and non-human, into my life.

This year has seen a lot less in the way of new vegan experiences, mainly because I’ve stood close to home for a myriad of reasons. Still, it wasn’t all status quo.

Some highlights from Year Five as a Vegan:

1. New media: Attended a screening of Cowspiracy, a must-see doc for those not yet aware of the environmental results of eating animals.
2. New eats: Just Mayo, which is taking the world by storm. Vegan mayo in dollar stores, people. Our time is here. No, seriously. It’s even pissing off the makers of Hellmann’s.
3. Takeout from Candle 79, compliments of my Manhattan-dwelling brother.

Here is what I know from my half-decade as a part of this movement. It’s easy to eat vegan and buy non-vegan wares; after a little time reading labels, it becomes second nature. Leading by example seems to have the greatest impact, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t things surrounding veganism that won’t piss you off. I don’t have all the answers, but I will continue to search for them, and to ask the questions. Animals are beautiful teachers, and I’m grateful every day that I have the opportunity to learn from them. I owe this veganniversary to them.

Happy Thanksgiving!