An Article Series from All-Creatures.org 

Animal Rights/Vegan Activists' Strategies

Dinner Invitation Was Rescinded

From PauwProject.com
April 2024

I am always happy to help someone who is interested in transitioning to a more compassionate way of living in the world.ext

Ficus bonsai now gracing my home...

Last month I wrote about an encounter I’d had with a neighbor who rescinded his invitation to dinner when he learned I was an ardent vegan. Thankfully, as I’d mentioned, I didn’t overreact. In fact, I pretty much acknowledged his text without comment, just a thumbs up in my text letting him know I’d received his message.

It was obvious that he was bothered, not by me, but by his response to learning something about me. When I let it be, it gave him an opportunity to consider his action. A long time ago, I remember someone telling me that if you’re having a discussion with someone and feel that things have gotten heated, or what’s coming at you is hostile, confusing, or unreasonable, that it can help to respond with silence. The other’s words are left ringing in their ears. It’s a great strategy.

In this case, my response gave my neighbor room to reconsider. This is what happened next.

I got a text telling me he had something for me. We arranged for him to bring it by a day or two later. He arrived carrying a lovely bonsai ficus plant with a note that said:

Dear Dr. McAllister,Please accept this humble token of my regret for having so abruptly called off our dinner. I would very much like to reschedule it a bit down the road. (He added mention of a personal dilemma which is causing him stress.)

Perhaps you would consent to be my guide into the Vegan world. I don’t know that I will ever choose a vegan diet exclusively, but I may be described as curious.

Regards, B

I couldn’t have hoped for a better outcome. I am always happy to help someone who is interested in transitioning to a more compassionate way of living in the world. 

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