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(d-9)
Mid-Hudson Vegetarian Society, Inc.
38 East Market Street, Rhinebeck, New York 12572 USA -
845-876-2626
Vegetarian - Vegan - Animal Rights - Health - Nutrition - Environment
The mission of the Mid-Hudson Vegetarian Society, Inc. is to promote the vegetarian ethic in the Mid-Hudson (New York) region, educate the community and aid anyone in the pursuit of a totally vegetarian (vegan) cruelty-free and healthful lifestyle.
Articles - Letters - and More
The Animals Come Two By Two
The Taconic Press
To The Editor:
"The Animals Come Two By Two" appeared over a photo showing the blessing of the animals in the Oct 7 issue. Two owners of companion animals were pictured having them blessed by a minister. I am sure all three of these people love animals. But why is it that so many love animals called pets and then eat animals called dinner? One of the animals shown is a rabbit, which occupies both categories in our culture. Religious and civic organizations serve animal flesh and name the events after the animal, roast beef dinner, pig roast.
Would a minister bless cows, chickens, pigs, lambs and rabbits going to slaughter? Love, kindness and compassion are part of the belief system of all religions. Yet most people and institutions ignore the severe cruelty that the factory farming methods of today cause to animals who feel pain and care for their young. In the hour that the blessing was happening, 1,153,000 living, breathing, feeling animals were slaughtered to provide burgers, ribs, breasts, wings and many other muscle tissues for human consumption. (Yes, ten billion animals are killed for food in the USA each year).
Those who love animals can consider if continuing to eat them is consistent with their values and beliefs. If not, people have a choice to live their values each time they choose what they will eat. Becoming vegetarian can be a satisfying way to eat as it can be delicious and is good for our body and spirit.
Roberta Schiff, President
Mid-Hudson Vegetarian Society
We look forward to
hearing from you
