Environmentally Friendly

As we all make our individual efforts to be more “green” it is right to mention that factory farming of animals causes the greatest source of greenhouse gas emissions on the planet. It also contributes to land degradation, water degradation, pollution, and soul degradation.
How is it any different to kill and eat a cow then it is to eat a dog, as they do in some countries? Is this prejudice? We tell ourselves that a cow or chicken is justifiable killing because well, God intended it so, or because we need protein, or because dogs are man’s best friend. We have developed the habit of killing, and we rationalize our guilt, be it subjugation of animals, or other countries. We live lives of inner contradictions. No one ever got fat by eating too many bananas, no one ever got clogged arteries from too much spinach, and no one has probably ever come to true spiritual peace by eating other animals.

We can live most likely healthier lives physiologically, as well as emotionally, on a plant supported diet. In a world overly bombarded with information we are still clear that natural vegetables can do little harm to our bodies, and to our souls. We know that animal flesh is full of toxic chemicals, be they growth inducing, disease protecting, or flesh preserving. Ever wonder what chemicals are released into the bloodstream of the animals we eat during their killing? We know that growth hormones have probably contributed to our girth growth, that preservatives, such as nitrates, contribute to our overload of allergens, and perhaps antibiotics have made us more resistant to bacteria, producing super bacteria, does the prevalence of psychological problems today have anything to do with eating frightened, adrenaline infused animals?

Whether you buy into the belief that you are what you eat, or not, you may be physiologically affected anyway. Most people do not like to be cruel or mean. Killing, that is not euthanasia, is not compassionate, respectful, or non violent. This is the quagmire. How can the soul be pure when the mind and the body are not? We talk about love and peace, a better world for the children of the future, but we live in self deception, disrespect, and self aggrandizement by the mere fact that we have to justify our killing. If our actions and intentions were a reflection of our most compassionate thoughtful selves there would be no need to justify the things we do.

As we all takes steps to being more “green” let us remember that are responsibility to the earth goes beyond the trendy eco friendly grocery bag. It is a thoughtful awareness of all that comprises our planet. Do you reuse your plastic sandwich baggies? Do you reuse coffee containers, margarine tubs, and shoe boxes? Have you started buying more fresh fruits and vegetables and less packed items? Have you started walking to the store or taking your bike? Do you recycle, reuse, and reduce? Do you respect all living spirits?

Genesis tells us that God gave humans dominion over the earth and all living things on the earth. Perhaps this is our greatest test, the responsibility to go beyond our sense of superiority and possessiveness, and bask in the light of servitude and protection of all.