As a child, I never felt like I really identified with anything. As I matured, I began to develop a mind of my own. There were many things that I began to identify with that are, my most people’s standards, outside of the norm. One of these things is adapting to the vegan lifestyle.

I am constantly asked how I could make such a sacrifice. I have never viewed it in such a way. I have no desire to ever eat a piece of meat ever again, nor would I like to eat anything dairy-based. The issue of eating such things goes beyond the common replies of “saving the planet” or “saving the animals.” This is something that I feel I am also doing for myself. I couldn’t see my life led any other way.

I am able to identify with being vegan because I see it as a culture. I don’t necessarily see it as a mainstream or an alternative culture, but it’s something that is important to many around me. I have started to brand food as part degree of necessity and part challenge. How much do I need to have fake meats or soy ice cream in my life? I have learned that I don’t really need these. What other foods could I actually make for myself that are more nutritious? The possibilities are endless. There are times when I do like to have fun and recreate foods I use to love. The challenge of recreating these foods is quite exhilarating.

The vegan culture around Fresno is definitely showing itself compared to a few years ago. Since I became vegan in Fresno, I have not only noticed different restaurants and grocery stores catering to vegans, but also the issue has been given much more light. As with every culture, I believe that you need to beware of what is being put in your face. Part of the reason I became vegan was to have a much more natural diet and steer away from packaged and processed foods. This can be very difficult for many who wish to be vegan because of the convenience of buying just that: packaged and processed foods. Before I was vegan, there was something inside of me that made me question the way I was living and the motives behind what I was eating. For example, what led me to veganism was my questioning of the value of health and what I was supporting. I don’t see why I would want to support half of the companies that are coming out with vegan products. It may be good enough for others, but its not good enough for me.

When it comes to identifying with veganism, I see it as something that I am knowledgeable of and can teach to others, not necessarily something that defines me. I have been introduced to many things by many of my friends. I am glad that this is something I can give back to my friends. I am not only a teacher but also an example of Vegan culture.