Today marks the 30th day of my 30-day vegan challenge. The past month has flown by so quickly it’s really hard to believe it’s already over. That being said, my exploration and commitment to a vegan lifestyle is hardly over. When I began this challenge I had pretty much already committed to a lifestyle change – to become vegan – and not just for 30 days. But, knowing how I can sometimes get very excited about new things and bite off more than I can chew, I guess calling it a “challenge” helped me feel safe in case for some reason I could not, or would not stick to being vegan.
Now, at the end of my challenge, I feel more confidant than ever that I can, in fact, be vegan. Almost immediately after making the decision I felt a surge of happiness. As cheesy(nondairy!) as it sounds, I felt like my actions were finally in line with my values. Never have I felt so wonderful about a choice I have made. And being one of the most indecisive people on the planet, this is a very big deal.
In addition to the feeling that my life is finally a reflection of my compassion, becoming vegan has given me a new attitude towards food. I’ve discovered so many new and delicious flavors that I may not have otherwise. Ingredients like miso paste, nutritional yeast and plant-based milks have become a staple in my kitchen. Learning how to make delicious new variations of long-time favorite foods such as vegan cashew nacho cheese and vegan pesto has been a delightful and fulfilling experience.
Even though this past month has been such a joy, not to mention WAY easier than I would have dreamed, I can’t help but be a little proud of myself. Thinking back to all of those times I questioned emphatically how anyone could possibly be vegan, I have to chuckle at myself. I now completely understand the how, and more importantly, the why of veganism. It may have taken me almost 30 years to reach this understanding, but after experience no less than a paradigm shift, I feel like I am stepping across some kind of invisible barrier to reveal an entirely new world. And I can’t wait to see what happens next.
If you resonate with any of these feelings, please comment and let me know your story.