Feel like nobody understands?????

[chickiegirl90]

Hey, I am new and I was just wondering if I am the only one who feels so alone where they live. I know only one other vegetarian besides me and she isn't even full vegetarian. I get stared at because I voice my opinions and nobody agrees with me. I am known as "that vegetarian girl." It gets really annoying after awhile, having to explain why I don't eat meat and trying to ward off the "animals were put on this earth to serve humans" speeches I am constantly recieving. It's exhausting.......

[synergy]

I know you're not the only one who feels this way. There are lots of people here who don't know many (or any) vegetarians in real life and have no support from the people around them.

That's why a community like VB can be such a sanity saver. Welcome to the boards! :)

[whisper]

I felt like that too. This is a great place to talk to others and not feel so alone.:hi:

[Identity_thief]

I totaly agree, although to me, it's just ordinariy, to them it's like a big deal. Actually I get refered to as "animail-righty" which is of course, so much better. Don't get me wrong, I am animal righty but I am also a whole heard of other things.

Anyway, it is exhuasting. But it's worth it :) welcome x

[Sevenseas]

Browsing VeggieBoards discussions on animal testing will quickly show that many vegetarians also subscribe to the idea that non-human animals are for human use (even if they drop the religious undertones). Fortunately, there are also many others who don't think this way.

[southern_vegan]

I know it's hard. Nobody but like one person in my family understands me. You should be proud that you arent ashamed to voice the opinion that the animals cant say theirselves. : ) I dont know of any vegetarians around here!

[janie]

I am sorry that you are experiencing those feelings. I know how tough it can be when you don't have support or someone to share the journey into vegetarianism.

Just remember that you are not the only one, and that although there may not be people around you where you live, there are plenty around the world that feel the same way you do. :)

With that said, welcome to VB! :hi:

[24fanatics]

I know the feeling. I am a brand new vegetarian, and am already tired of trying to explain my reasons to people. It can be very frustrating. I am so glad that I can come here and talk to people who do understand.

[Fyvel]

Don't exhaust yourself trying to justify your actions to other people. Quite frankly, it's none of their business what you do. If they want to make snarky comments and belittle you, simply shrug it off and change the subject. Come up with an answer that is quick and to the point and makes it obvious you don't want to discuss it any further (such as "I feel this is the best decision for me" or something to that effect). If they continue to pester you, simply state your reason again, and ask them to respect that ("I feel this is the best decision for me, and I ask you to respect that"). They should get the point.

However, keep in mind that there are different reasons why someone would ask you about your decisions. Not everyone wants to attack you. Some people are genuinely curious, and respectful. Feel free to have your discussions with these people, and explain your reasons for being veg. Who knows, you may have a good impact!

I've found that discussions with people who are genuinely interested to be very rewarding. Choose your battles, and learn how to recognize why someone is asking you about it. And don't feel like you are obligated to explain yourself to anyone - because you aren't. You can end a conversation at any time by requesting that the subject be changed, and if that doesn't work, you can always just walk away.

[tiggybrown]

I make some pretty far out dishes and the people here at work are used to eating chicken parm subs and pizza for lunch. I love bringing in some falafel and sharing it with everyone. The other day I brought in yellow watermelon and everyone was amazed by it. I try to shrug off the comments and try to chalk it up to curiousity, I once was an ignorant omnivore, it was not my fault though. So I contine to being in spegetti with "meatballs" (meatballs made of breadcrumbs, crushed walnuts, onions, and garlic) and hear everyone say "that is pretty good" plant the seeds in their head that veggie food tastes just as good if not better then meat and you can feel good inside about what you are eating.