Exactly what it says. I found this video that explained my feelings to a T, so I typed it up as to give it to people, or post it on blogs such as this.
The Philosophy of Vegan Values
The term "Vegan" is often used to mean a set of basic values and attitudes toward life, nature and society. In this sense Veganism is a "Philosophy of Life," guided by an essential core of values and principles: Vegans see life as phenomenon to be treasured revered and respected. We do not see animals as either "the enemy" to be subdued, or the materials for Food, Fabric, or Fun who were put on earth for humans to use.
Vegans see themselves as a part of the natural world rather than it's owners or it's masters. Veganism recognizes no expendable or superfluous species that humans are free to hurt or destroy. Species or life forms need not justify their existence, nor plead for protection from extincting on the grounds of their potential userfulness, as food or medicine for humans. We continue to be burdened and misguided by adages such as, "a weed is a plant we have not yet found use for.".
Veganism acknowledges the intrinsic legitimacy of all life. It rejects any hierarchy of acceptable suffering among sentient creatures. It is no more acceptable to torment or kill creatures with "primitive nervous systems" than those with "highly developed nervous systems.". The value of life to its possessor is the same, wether it be the life of a clam, a crayfish, a carp, a cow, a chicken, or a child.
Veganism understands that gentleness cannot be a product of violence, harmony cannot be a product of strife, and peace cannot be a product of contention and conflict. Vegan ideals encompass much more than advocacy of a diet free of animal products, or a fervent defense of animal rights. Veganism excludes no sentient being-animal or human - from it's commitment to compassionate gentle benevolence. To show tender regard for the suffering of animals yet treat humans with callous contempt, is a disheartening contradiction of vegan principles.
Every time we bend down to pick something up, it is connected to something else. There is an equivalent "ecology" to our behaviour. Everything we do connects to something else; every action touches on the world around us, either close at hand and noticeable, or far away and unperceived, immediate in it's effect or distant in time. If veganism has a prime value, it is simply that life-respecting compassion overrides individual issues of custom conveniance, comfort, or cuisine.
If there is a single article of faith, it is that commitment to Vegan values will bring us closer to a world in which the fate and fortune of a planet and all it's life forms do not hang on the judgment or the generosity of one species. If there is one single concept that both generates and sustains to the meaning and the power of the vegan world-view, it is found in the world mindfulness.
As Vegans, we strive to be thoughtful, aware and concerned the impact of our choices, our actions, and our decisions. The fruit of this awareness is inner peace, and the quiet strength of ethical confidence, and an uplifting sense of fulfillment. "The Four Immeasureables" May all sentient beings have happiness and it's causes, may all sentient beings be free of suffering and it's causes, may all sentient beings never be separated from bliss that is without suffering, may all sentient beings live in equanimity, free of bias, attachment and anger.
The Philosophy of Vegan Values by Dr S M Sapon.
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HAHA! SUMMER!
Zest
Tired
Optimism
Maybe I'll try drawing digitally again, and make another port as well. -needs to find the elements disc-
Joy
