Available in
either softbound or Kindle/Nook/etc. eBook at Amazon
viviansharpe.com
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4 Don’t overload on disturbing videos and content.
The
first year that I was vegan, I watched a ton of videos and read a lot
of materials that deepened my understanding and my core commitment to
animal advocacy. They also put me on the edge of burnout before I’d
even really begun. I believe that there is a fine line we walk with our
exposure to graphic materials and if one is not careful, it’s fairly
easy to teeter off that line and fall into compassion fatigue. Some
deepens our commitment; too much, though, and we can overload.
When I was newly on this path, I watched a lot of videos but the
footage that sent me nearly over the edge was on how performing and
working elephants are beaten to have their spirits broken; I am pretty
sure these videos left a painful bruise on my heart that remains tender to this
day. I wept and sobbed uncontrollably in a fetal position on the floor;
I couldn’t talk to anyone much beyond a basic “yes” and “no” for weeks,
which made work difficult. I absolutely hated the world. Although I
knew the cruelties intellectually, watching the footage was emotionally
eviscerating in a way that left me pretty unable to function. I felt
like I was drowning in despair.
I climbed out of that deep well of grief in time – thanks, in large
part, to my supportive community (see above) – but I can see how during
this critical time, I could have easily decided to quit and go back,
again, to the path of least resistance: giving up my advocacy and
veganism. Instead, I decided that I needed to know enough to be
articulate and informed on the topics but that steeping in disturbing
materials wasn’t healthy for me as a person or as an activist who must
engage with the world in order to be effective. I’m in it for the long
game. I’m sure you want to be, too. If we burn out, the animals can no
longer count on us. I do not watch violent footage anymore and I
haven’t for years; in no way has this softened or dulled my commitment
to vegan advocacy and outreach. In fact, it has strengthened my drive
and resolve because I am not being drained by compassion fatigue
anymore. I will say, though, this kind of footage can also be a very
powerful antidote to if you’ve found that you’re becoming complacent or
apathetic. Kind of like Goldilocks, you need to find the amount that is
just right for you.
Know yourself and your boundaries about how much you can expose
yourself to without risking your equilibrium. Tune in to and respect
your own boundaries. In the meantime, if you are looking for emotional
support and someone to talk to who understands, please try the free helpline offered every Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM, by In Defense of Animals.
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ALL CHAPTERS
Intro: Welcome new vegan!
1. Finding your way in an imperfect world
2. Make peace with making mistakes
3. Find community
4. Don't overload on disturbing videos and content
5. Develop your vegan voice and assertiveness
6. Stay strong against social pressure and gain resilience as a vegan
7. Learn how to cook, even just a little
8. Technology helps you over hurdles
9. Listen to vegan podcasts
10. Take advantage of other resources
11. The health benefits of a plant-based diet
12. Don't let yourself get famished
13. Expect that your digestive system might take a little while to get straightened out
14. Untangle and tame food cravings
15. Dining out as a vegan
16. A primer on vegan kitchen appliances, tools & gadgets
17. Bring joy to your vegan practice
©
2013-2018, Vegan Street
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