High moral ground

827: 

The trouble with being vegan is that we have two agendas, to educate others and to bolster our own self esteem. As ardent as we might be, to advocate for animals, we also need approval for ourselves. Are we really protecting animals or protecting ourselves? Are we needing to be taken seriously so badly that we project an image of how we want to be seen, rather than what we deeply believe is right? Do we want to be admired for making a stand? Do we need to see progress for Animal Rights to validate our own contributions? I think we should put these questions to stop us getting too carried away with our ‘mission’; if we want to allay suspicion about our motives and if we don’t want to be seen as self righteous, then we might have to soft pedal the high moral ground when we speak. To be this open about ourselves will prevent us being seen as sermonisers, so that we can be given the chance to put our case

            Vegans are trying to reach those who are far away, who can’t face the idea of a vegan food regime let alone face up to discussing animal rights or the healthy body or the sharp mind or the clear conscience. Omnivores don’t necessarily disagree with our facts and figures but they find our certainty off-putting. A little humility will go a long way. If we aren’t approachable we can’t expect to influence people. It’s too easy to be seen as invasive.