Holas everyone!

I have recently made the decision to vegetarian,Well I wouldn't say recently...it'll be 6 months on August 28,2006. I had given up meat for lent (a catholic holiday were you make a choice to sacrifice something for 40 days and 40 nights) it was pretty hard...I was living a low carb lifestyle before that day(all meat) for over a year. I logged on to PETA.ORG on fine day and that's the day that changed my life forever. Now the dilemma that I am currently experiencing is this: I love animals and I've decided that I will no longer eat them, I want to support the ANTI-LEATHER AND FUR Campaign...I still own leather products that were given to me as gifts,nothing major (watches,wallets and stuff) I wear Vans which I Know are supported by PETA. I don't want to get rid of these things because they are near and dear to me. What should I do? should I just start from this point forward? I have decided to also support the anti-animaltesting campaign as well...I just need some insight on what I should do.I feel like such a hipocrite. Also, what do I say to friends that make fun of me for making this choice? One says why do I give up meat if it tastes so darn good. I tell them that I think it's gross and that I've seen some nasty stuff and if they knew what they were eating they would think twice before biting down on that stake and all they say is that's they were put on the earth for...so we can eat them...what the hell do I say to someone so close minded? Another question I have is this: Does anyone know of a vitamin supplement that I can take? I am typically anemic and I understand that vegetarianism can impact my anemia even more...any help would be appreciated from the vegetarian community...Help I'm desperate!

Hi and welcome to VB!



Regarding leather and other animal products that you have from before, it is a personal decision. Some people continue to use the products until they are worn out, and then replace them with vegan options. Other people choose to give them away. It depends on your own comfort level.



I have given away some leather good like a jacket I had and gloves, but for purses and shoes, I still use the ones I purchased in the past, and just choose non animal ones when I buy more.



Having unsupportive omni friends is far too common, but most of us have experienced it. That's why it's nice to have a place like VB!





I don't know too much about supplements, but I would try using the search function to look for old threads about anemia.