abdicating all-or-nothing

I am internally conflicted. Yes, I realize that is an ultra-loaded statement. And, yes, it could be argued that most of the human population could probably make a similar assertion. However, for the purposes of this post, I will focus on issue that is currently providing the most contention -- to eat or not to eat (meat, that is).

Sparing the details, there are a number of reasons I choose/chose/will choose to forgo meat products as a part of my calorie intake. One of the principal catalysts being my health. Along those same lines, I also prefer to eat foods in their most natural state, or at least those that are non-chemically "enhanced," modified or manufactured.

Truthfully, the concern extends much farther than what will be on my dinner plate this evening. I struggle with not only what will nourish me on the inside, but also, the products I use on my outer self. For instance, using cosmetics sans parabens, cleaning with environmentally-friendly products, etc. For me, the omnivore-herbivore conflict goes hand-in-hand with this.

The natural school of thought is not a contemporary concept. Growing up in a house where my mother would take us to visit the "witch doctor," feed us Barleygreen, bake with whole wheat flour and order products from a food co-op, instilled in me is the basis of doing things the natural way.

One of my main enemies is the all-or-nothing thought process -- again, a concept of which many others can relate. Few aspects of human behavior are absolute. Yet, as a culture, how many times do we use the words "always" and "never?" I find myself relating this type of thinking to what I eat and the products I use. In the past, I have gone back and forth with buying natural products and those containing the undesirables, just as I have done with the choices of my food, only to "give up" because I was tired of the restrictions.

Enter Michale Pollan's rationalization: Eat food. Mostly plants. Not too much.

Personally, I think Pollan's is an ideal solution -- one which can be extended into other areas of life and one of which I'm going to subscribe. It eliminates the all-or-nothing mentality and advocates for a healthier attitude. Although I will still prefer vegetarian options, I am going to allow myself to enjoy a naturally-raised chicken breast once in a while. And, while the majority of my cosmetics may free of parabens and sulfates, it will take a firing squad to force me to renounce my favorite mascara, which doesn't fall under the previous category. With that being said, I am also going to ensure that the food I do ingest is of a higher quality, with the first step being my placing an order with Door to Door Organics.

I can't end this post without acknowledging my college roommate, Mary, whom I was able to visit this week during my stay in Minneapolis and who continues to inspire and educate me in the areas of health and the environment, and has been doing so since we met at McIntyre Hall in the fall of 2001. Thanks, Mary.

One of the most amazing women I know and a very dear friend -- me and Mary during my visit to Minneapolis this week.