What does “Independence” stand for?
Image courtesy of Google: a vintage etching of Uncle Sam atop the snail of congress… appropriate considering today’s political climate?
Oh ’tis Independence Day. Hard to believe the U.S. is 236 years of age today. Well, officially any way. I just had to use this image for its hilarity and appropriateness, especially based on my recent crochet project. (In this post, I was still working on the shell! Check out tomorrow’s post to see the finished product and the owner who adores it!) But upwards and onwards!
All of the hype surrounding the celebration of the United States’ founding really get me to thinking about our society and what it means. Oh yes, this is another discussion of the food political, folks!
For most Americans, the Fourth means cook outs and pool parties. Lots of sugar, lots of charcoal and lots of beer. All things American, right? I feel that there is a tremendous lack of sensitivity and mindfulness that comes with any major holiday, especially in the realm of sustainability. There is a lot of wastefulness that goes on for the Fourth, not to mention every other commercialized holiday like Christmas or Easter. It’s just a good time to stop and think about the way you will celebrate, not just this holiday but also any other.
I just love Gil Elvgren’s pin up girls! Had to go with this one for this post! (Found via Google!)
What choices will you make and how will they reflect your values and standards as a citizen of this Earth, not to mention as a vegan? This is the question I ask myself constantly, when I’m buying groceries or deciding if I should bike or drive to work. All of these little things we do matter, and American Independence Day is just another reminder of this. So instead of touting red, white, and blue all over and going for the all-American approach like the lovely lady in the pin-up above, I think I’ll show my colors in a different way this year.
I think I’ll choose to show mindfulness and compassion, and every little bite of that veggie dog/burger I’ll be eating at our little cook out will be my small way of rebelling against the larger systems that are in place upon us, not only in this country but also in contemporary society. So eat that veggie burger with a heavy dose of vegan pride this year! And know that what you are doing makes a difference, even if it doesn’t seem like it on the day to day, and if the predominant images conveyed by our lovely American media are of steaks, wings, and all things red, white and blue.
Have a happy and ethical Fourth, all!
Bisous!
Rachel
