June 24, 2008
Yesterday's post was not intended to make anyone feel guilty about eating meat, it was just a critical look at how this country produces its meat products. Cattle feed lots are inhumane no matter what.No animal should be subjected to this.
Large commercial chicken "ranches" are no better.
I am not promoting vegetarianism for anyone. It is a compelling choice that simply doesn't work for most people. I DO, however, advocate that people who choose to eat meat be more mindful of how that food is produced.
It is possible to purchase food from free-range producers. Because more care is taken with these animals, the food is more expensive, and most consumers choose commercially-produced products.
A comment was left yesterday by hissandtell about her cattle ranch and the animal care that is taken in Australia. The cattle are allowed to roam and graze and socialize. Unfortunately, animals are not treated as humanely here. I grew up in the Midwest and I saw it for myself. I just drove through Texas and saw it again.
We have become immune to such things in this country. We simply accept that our animal food products merely show up in the store wrapped in nice packages, etc. We have lost sight of the truth. We are losing touch with our connection to the sacredness of the animals.
Yes, this is my soapbox, and I climb up here every now and then. I saw emu oil show again this morning, and it angers me when they try to portray the nobility of what they are doing. These birds are raised on commercial emu ranches with no room to run and glory in their flightless birdness. Enough said.
I just encourage everyone to go out and make a wise choice today. Just one. Eat a piece of organic fruit or buy some free-range eggs. Think about how it got here for you to enjoy. Be mindful of the blessings.
