Veganism-Environmental Guide and Nutrition in Species Ministry. VEGAN = LOVE FOR PEOPLE, ANIMALS, PLANET.
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MISSION STATEMENT
"V-EGANISM educates people and helps people and animals regarding the political and social justice cause, Veganism, which is a philosophy and way of living which seeks to exclude--as far as is possible and practical--all forms of exploitation of, and cruelty to, animals for food, clothing, cosmetics, household products, entertainment, service or any other purpose; and by extension, promotes the development and use of animal-free alternatives for the benefit of humans, animals, and the environment."
Healthy Body, Mind & Spirit Maneki Neko Cat
Love & Peace Maneki Neko Cat
Animals Killed Counter
Animals Slaughtered:
0 marine animals
0 chickens
0 ducks
0 pigs
0 rabbits
0 turkeys
0 geese
0 sheep
0 goats
0 cows and calves
0 rodents
0 pigeons and other birds
0 buffaloes
0 dogs
0 cats
0 horses
0 donkeys and mules
0 camels and other camelids
Wednesday, June 11, 2014
Vegetarian Heaven
Tuesday, June 10, 2014
Learning from the Spiritual Lives of Animals
Dr. Linda Bender, DVM, has just released a book called, Animal Wisdom: Learning from the Spiritual Lives of Animals, part of a sacred activism series.
A portion of the book's proceeds will be donated to From the Heart, which funnels 100 percent of its profits to charities that directly benefit animals, their care and their habitats.
Monday, June 9, 2014
Edible Garden is Sustainable, Tasty
Friday, June 6, 2014
Bite Size Food for Thought
Thursday, June 5, 2014
You CANNOT Be a Non-Vegan Environmentalist!
You CANNOT Be a Non-Vegan Environmentalist!
Wednesday, May 28, 2014
Charities: The Humane and the Inhumane
Here is a terrific list of charities that do not fund animal experiments, and charities that do, from the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine:
CHARITIES
Tuesday, May 27, 2014
Oregon: Freedom to Marry
HISTORY
GROUPS ACTIVELY WORKING ON MARRIAGE
- Oregon United for Marriage is the growing coalition dedicated to securing the freedom to marry for same-sex couples, leading the campaign to make Oregon the first state to proactively amend the constitution at the ballot in support of the freedom to marry.
- Basic Rights Oregon is Oregon's central state organization committed to ending discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.
- Freedom to Marry is the campaign to win marriage for same-sex couples nationwide.
Friday, May 23, 2014
The Mystical Cat
Tuesday, May 20, 2014
Vegan-Friendly Fiction Only!
Quite some time ago, I've noticed myself naturally becoming more and more sickened by reading novels containing animal cruelty as if it's OK, like hunting (including the hunting of fish called "fishing"), eating animal flesh in restaurants, eating dairy and eggs, wearing leather, and the horrible list goes on.
Just today as I was reading a novel, there's a character who wears cashmere. I decided to skip the paragraph but then to read the character is now eating steak....I decided to stop reading this book and to now make a conscious decision to never, ever read a fiction book that promotes animal cruelty.
The reason I will still read non-fiction books with possible animal cruelty in it, is because true books are for serious study, education, reference and of historical knowledge. Whereas books of fiction are designed for the pure pleasure, enjoyment of reading. I do not find pro-cruelty pleasurable reading. But if the novel mentions animal cruelty in a negative way--great!--I'll read that.
I love reading fiction and as I researched online, looking for vegan-friendly novels, I was so disappointed to find not many exist. There are some books mentioning a token vegan, but rarely do I find an entire novel that's vegan-friendly.
Well, for now, I recently bought two vegan novels that I will read this summer--thank you Kim Barnouin! I just hope other authors publish more vegan-friendly novels, instead of publishing so many vegan cookbooks that are already on the market....
Monday, May 12, 2014
Philanthropic Things You Can Do to Help Animals
Here are some fabulous philanthropic things you can do to help animals.
Garage and Yard Sales
You can find some treasures for your animal local shelter(s) by going to garage and yard sales. Pet and wildlife rescues use baby toys to entertain their animals; blankets and most standard pet supplies (aquariums, cat scratching posts, pet bowls) are always welcome donations. Even throwaways like cardboard boxes and plastic bags are useful for bedding and to pick up waste. You could also hold your own yard sale and donate the profits to your favorite shelter.
Knitting Party!
Shelters constantly need blankets to comfort and warm their animals, but many don’t have the means to provide soft, clean bedding. Hold a knitting party to make blankets (or other warm garments) for a needy shelter. Collect some yarn, fabric, and knitting equipment and gather with friends in a cafe or living room for a relaxed evening of friendly chit-chat or TV viewing while your hands keep busy making blankets.
Make Your Own Cruelty-Free Cosmetics
We all know the horrors of animal testing...but products that don’t test can be expensive and/or hard to find. This applies to items required for basic hygiene--toothpaste, shampoo, deodorant--as well as purely cosmetic beauty aids. To save money, you can have fun making your own cosmetic concoctions with all-natural vegan ingredients available at most health food stores. Recipes for vegan soap, vegan lotion, vegan shampoo, and other vegan necessities are readily available on the Internet, and can be left plain or scented with your own special blend of essential oils.
Build a Backyard Mini-Sanctuary
Depending on your funds and acreage, you could do any number of things to invite wildlife to your backyard. Something as simple as installing a small feeder could prevent birds from going hungry over the winter (make sure to research your favorite birds to learn what foods and feeder types attract them). You could even have a bat house for your sanctuary. If you have the space, plant native shrubs and wildflowers to attract native insects and animals, and install a birdbath or pond to keep animals clean and hydrate. Don't forget to keep cats inside and remove any lawn chemicals and chemical pesticides or your nice new sanctuary will become an animal death trap.
Have an Animal Themed Fundraiser
Recently for her birthday, actress Doris Day had an auction and tribute dinner to benefit her animal foundation. You can do the same with your upcoming birthday, wedding or any special day. Doris Day’s bash included a doggie fashion show, but if that sort of thing is too gimmicky to fit in your plans, you can simply ask guests to donate to your favorite charity instead of bringing a gift. A menu of tasty vegan entree dishes and snacks would help set the right mood for the occasion!
(source: One Green Planet)
Monday, May 5, 2014
A Sacred Duty: Applying Jewish Values To Help Heal The World
Produced by Emmy-Award-winning producer, director, writer, and cinematographer Lionel Friedberg's, A Sacred Duty discusses issues on global warming, but it goes beyond that by showing how religious responses can make a major difference and why a shift toward a plant-based diet is an essential part of efforts to reduce global climate change and other environmental threats.
Friday, May 2, 2014
10 Environmental and Animal Activists Who Were Killed for Taking a Stand
Supporting veganism in the face of overwhelming and powerful opposition can be a courageous and sometimes dangerous act. For many activists, unfortunately, taking a stand for what’s right becomes the last thing they ever do.
Thursday, May 1, 2014
Medicine Comes with Four Legs and a Wagging Tail
I found this video showing how animals can make such a huge impact on people that are ill. Some of the best medicine comes with four legs and a wagging tail!
In this video, the dog Roscoe has the incredible ability to give voice to a man with Alzheimer's disease who has lost most of his verbal communication skills. When Roscoe is in the room, the man's ability to speak magically reappears.
According to The Alzheimer's Association, pet therapy dates back to the 1860s, though the positive impact of animals on their guardians wasn't studied in earnest until the 1980s.
Wednesday, April 30, 2014
Dr. Steve Best Interview: Total Liberation
Dr. Steve Best gives a terrific interview here, and I can't wait until the book, Total Liberation: Revolution for the 21st Century comes out.
Saturday, April 26, 2014
Three Cruelty-Free Soaps
I just came back from grocery shopping and bought these 3 cruelty-free soaps.
Unfortunately, the companies that sell the vegan soaps are not vegan companies overall, so be careful, please read the ingredients before purchasing soaps from these companies to make sure it's 100% cruelty-free vegan like the ones above.
Friday, April 18, 2014
"Skinny Bitch" Vegan Chicklit Novels
When Zach signs up for her cooking class, however, she’s astonished. He’s far from the simple meathead Clem imagined him to be. In fact, he’s a very good kisser. Clem thought she was open-minded, but as she confronts the challenges of budding entrepreneurship, old rivals, ex-boyfriends, and two tempting suitors—a charming British vegan chef and a traitorously attractive carnivore—Clem wonders if she can ever say “I love you” to a man who hates tofu.
320 pages. Published: June 4, 2013
Clem has no time for distractions. Or surprises. But when her meat-eating millionaire boyfriend Zach Jeffries shocks her with a sweet and romantic marriage proposal, of course she says yes! Now she has to plan the most important menu of her life while fending off her domineering future mother-in-law’s extravagant plans for the wedding.
As if there wasn’t enough on her plate, Clem decides to open a second restaurant on her parents’ farm—Clem’s No Crap Outpost— against Zach’s advice. Just when she needs his support the most, Zach grows distant. The only person who really seems to understand is Clem’s friend and biggest competition, the cute vegan chef Alexander Orr. Putting out fires in the kitchen is easy—but in her relationship? Suddenly, her time with Alexander feels . . . hotter . . . than usual, and Clem starts to wonder if the charming carnivore she’s engaged to is really the man she should spend her life with.
Thursday, April 17, 2014
In Defense of Insects
A bush cockroach (Ellipsidion australe)
Here are two awesome articles on sticking up for all animals--including insects. Insects are not only living sentient beings, but they also help the environment.
On Defending Cockroaches
Also, check out the other link inside that article, called:
The Insects Among Us
Wednesday, April 16, 2014
Social Justice Cards
I just ordered my brand new cards for my vegan ministry! It should arrive within 8 days from Vistaprint.
As you can see, I was able to put a lot on it! I didn't just want to have my name, email and web address; I wanted to describe in detail what my ministry is all about before anyone would contact me.
The picture was the best I could find on their site to illustrate what my ministry is all about--Veganism equaling love for all, symbolized by doves which represents peace.
I can't wait for my cards to arrive!
Thursday, March 27, 2014
Documentary: A Will for the Woods
What if our "last act" could be a gift to the planet--a force for regeneration?
Musician, folk dancer, and psychiatrist Clark Wang prepares for his own green burial, determined that his final resting place will benefit the earth.
For more information:
A Will for the Woods
I have also added "natural, green burial" websites/information to my Links List below for those who are interested in planning a green burial for themselves and/or their loved ones. You can find the links in the list where I mention in parenthesis the burial sites are for people.
Tuesday, March 25, 2014
Cruelty-Free Women Polka Dot Newsboy Hats w/ Metallic Accents & Bow!
I purchased these 3 cool and very feminine hats from Amazon! It arrived quickly and best of all, they are cruelty-free! I'll wear them especially when I go to church.
- 60% Cotton, 40% Polyester
- Best Fit From 21 1/2"-22 1/2" Head Circumference (Hat Size 6 7/8 - 7 1/8)
- 3" x 2 1/4" Bow on the Left Side of the Hat
- 2" Wide Visor
Saturday, March 15, 2014
First Aid for ALL
This is the AHA's official First Aid class book, which teaches you thoroughly on how to treat all kinds of injuries. Nice book to have around for emergencies regardless of whether you are a student or not. Easy to understand with lots of photos.
First Aid for Companion Animals
This book, in my opinion, is the best book on the market for giving first aid to dogs and cats. It covers everything you need to know, even serious injuries like gun shot wounds. It shows you how to give CPR to any size animal. Easy to understand with photos. No home with companion animals should be without this book.
Thursday, March 13, 2014
Vegan Owned and Operated Hint Mints Inc.
I got Hint Mint's Pomegranate Acai in the mail yesterday. It taste very sweet and good, satisfying my sweet tooth, but it wouldn't do if one has regular bad breath; it's more of a breath freshener, or terrific as vegan candy. Although the name says "hint mint", I can't really taste the mint, but the taste of fruit definitely stands out.
If you love candy while freshening up your breath a bit, this one's for you!
Tuesday, March 11, 2014
Vegan/Animal Rights: A Failing Movement
I mentioned this briefly in my Tweets on Twitter but I want to elaborate my thoughts here.
Since listening to Steven Best's lecture, and dwelling on it regarding my own personal experience, I have now come to realize the world going vegan will most likely never, ever happen--not only in my lifetime-but never (unless God/dess force everyone to be vegan) because of the movement itself.
Steve Best gave his reasons why the Vegan/Animal Rights movement is failing--mainly due to the movement as a whole in not wanting to join forces with other social justice causes of various movements world-wide to make the planet a place of freedom and justice for all: People and Animals and thus the Environment. Please listen to Steve's lecture if you have not already. It is the most profound speech I have ever heard!
Here are my personal experiences and also reasons why the Vegan/Animal Rights movement is failing and will continue to do so:
The movement is full of egos--people wanting to be a celebrity in some way so chooses the Vegan/Animal Rights movement to do it in (mind you, people like these are in any kind of movement--not just animal rights--in wanting the spotlight to be some sort of celebrity). These people do not want to listen to others; they just want to do their own thing in hopes of being a famous vegan celebrity.
For instance:
I have contacted well-known animal rights people/groups in the movement like Our Hen House, Colleen Patrick-Goudreau, Erin Red: Red Radio, Go Vegan Radio and Gary Francione. I have mentioned thoughts of my own and thoughts of other animal activists to make progress in the Vegan/Animal Rights movement and they have not responded to me. These ideas (mine and others--like Steven Best and Gary Yourofsky) are well thought-out, intelligent and ideas no one in the movement has said, but yet there is silence with these people and groups that could help make a difference in the movement since they all have a fairly large following. But no response, be it for or against these ideas. They just have their own beliefs and do not care about what others are thinking. What respect I had for these people are now gone, as to me, they don't really care about animals; all they care about is becoming some famous celebrity vegan. Some of these people's/group's podcasts actually sound like entertainment shows!
How sad and pathetic, but as I said, these types of people are in all kinds of movements.
So why do I continue in the Vegan/Animal Rights movement, knowing it's a lost cause?
Because I care about freedom and justice for all beings and it is my own personal moral responsibility to continue to help others and the environment. I'm happy I will have a clear conscience when I pass on, knowing what I did for animals, people and planet was ethically and morally right and I was not in the movement to try to become a famous vegan celebrity.
My hope is that vegans/animal rights people in the movement will come to their senses and realize to truly save the world, we must not have huge self-centered egos and start listening to each other, learning from each other, and come together as a whole to make a peaceful, loving world.
All beings--people and animals--want a free and just life, so let's start making it happen--NOW.
Wednesday, March 5, 2014
The New Abolitionism: Animal Liberation and Social Revolution
This is truly the best speech ever so far! Human Rights and Animal Rights! Brilliant and strong! Very well said Steven Best.
Tuesday, March 4, 2014
(Was) World's Oldest Vegan Regarding Veganism: "It's All There in the Bible"
Loreen Dinwiddie, passed away at age 109 in September 2012. She had been vegan since 1922. Ms. Dinwiddie lived in my town in Portland.
She credits her vegan diet, which she started in 1922 with her husband, for her longevity.
If someone would have asked me who I would want to meet back then if I could meet anyone, I would have said, Loreen Dinwiddle.
Here she is--looking great at 108!
Monday, March 3, 2014
Vegan Mini Mall and Veggie Grill for My Birthday!
On Saturday, I went to the Vegan Mini Mall, and bought these delicious goodies below from Food Fight! Grocery and Sweetpea Baking Co. The peanut butter square (which tastes exactly like Reese's Peanut Butter Cups) is what I got from Sweetpea, and the rest from Food Fight!
It's always comforting knowing I don't have to pay much attention to ingredients when I shop at the Vegan Mall, since everything is cruelty-free.
On Sunday, I went to Veggie Grill, and had my usual, which is below. I should order more different entrees--I did once--but I love the vegan cheeseburger with fries, and carrot cake (and lemonade) too much to get something different. It's SO delicious!!
To end the day, although I canceled my TV service last year, I was still able to watch the Oscars live last night! I love watching the Academy Awards; it's my "Super Bowl".
Sunday, February 23, 2014
Sweetpea Baking Co. (vegan owned)
Tuesday, February 11, 2014
"Vegan" Turns 70
So 2014 is a special year. It marks the 70th anniversary of the coining of the word "vegan" by Donald Watson in 1944 and founding The Vegan Society.
The Big V has come a long way in 70 years. "Vegan" is now a household word. Celebrities and politicians promote it. There are hundreds of vegan cookbooks, foods in ordinary grocery stores and restaurants labeled specifically vegan, and 2 whole generations of people that are vegan since birth.
Monday, February 10, 2014
Vegan One-Stop Stores Only Buying from Vegan Companies/Manufacturers
There are A LOT of vegan shops around online--hundreds--and there are 100% vegan one-stop grocery stores like Pangea, Food Fight! Grocery, and Viva La Vegan and that's AWESOME! But I have been looking for a vegan one-stop shop that only buys the vegan products they carry from vegan company manufacturers. I checked the one-stop stores I just mentioned and while they sell a ton of products from 100% vegan manufacturers, not ALL the products these stores sell comes from vegan owned companies/manufacturers.
I'm not sure if such a one-stop vegan shop like that exists. There are just many vegan owned small companies/manufacturers.
You'd think one would exist since such a store could buy their merchandise from all of these small vegan owned manufacturers that are around online and offline. As I can see, vegan places such as Food Fight! Grocery, Pangea, and Viva La Vegan would still have a lot of items in stock if they just stuck with buying from the many vegan owned manufacturers they already do business with.
I think this is the next step in being more pro-active for animal rights as much as possible for vegan owner entrepreneurs.
We vegans should go beyond just using only vegan products by always striving in choosing to make as ones first choice by buying from vegan owned and operated companies first, and if one can't find the vegan product they are looking for but still really want that item, then go to a non-vegan owned company to buy that vegan product (like I will no longer buy Tom's products because their parent company tests on animals). After doing some research, I have discovered some great vegan owned and operated companies online at terrific prices that I will now buy from instead of buying the vegan items from non-vegan companies. Many vegan-owned companies sell their items at Amazon with great prices for instance.
My future next step I want to make will be buying directly from these vegan owned companies, even though buying direct I may have to pay more, but as long as I can afford it, I want to do that, as I start to make more money in my vocation.... I strive to shop less and less at non-vegan owned businesses. Also, since I am extremely blessed in living in a city with many vegan owned food establishments (vegan fast food restaurants, vegan cafes, vegan bakeries, vegan Italian restaurants all in Portland), I have decided when dining out to only eat at these places.
Obviously to be vegan, all one has to do is just use vegan products in and of themselves, but I believe it's vital to not be a complacent vegan and always look for ways to raise one's personal level in being pro-active as a vegan. We are all imperfect vegans, so there is always room to grow.
Thursday, February 6, 2014
Adept Spiritual Life
You can find and bookmark my blog here: Adept Spiritual Life
Wednesday, January 29, 2014
New Vegan-Friendly Cafe: The Ark
Wednesday, January 8, 2014
Mind If I Order The Cheeseburger?
Great episode from podcast, ARZone:
Episode 75 features Professor of Law and author Sherry Colb.
Sherry Colb is professor of Law at Cornell University and is the author of the book, Mind If I Order the Cheeseburger? and Other Questions People Ask Vegans (2013).
Sherry visits ARZone to talk about that book, in which she offers practical and well-reasoned advice to all of us who may encounter some of the most common questions put to vegans by non-vegans. She also talks with us about the importance of empathy and understanding in advocacy and how feminism intersects with animal rights.
http://www.arzonepodcasts.com/2013/12/arzone-podcast-75-sherry-colb-mind-if-i.html
Tuesday, January 7, 2014
Leanne Mai-ly Hilgart, Vaute Couture, and Michelle Schwegmann, Herbivore Clothing
Leanne Mai-ly Hilgart, Vaute Couture, and Michelle Schwegmann, Herbivore Clothing
Episode Info | Unity.FM