Compassionate Communication Continued

The following is and entry (I admit I jumped ahead a little) from The Vegan’s Daily Companion.  Since there is no name attached to it, I assume it was written by the author, Colleen Patrick-Goudreau.  I am posting this, though, because it not only speaks her truth, but definitely mine, as well…though I also am super big on how healthy a plant-based diet is for the humans, as well as the animals…and of course how important fitness is for all of us!

Knowing Your Intention

“Although this may come as a surprise, my intention in the work I do is not to make the world vegan.  My intention is not to change someone else’s mind.  If those were my intentions, I would fail every time. It’s not my role to make anyone do anything.  All I can do is speak the truth and trust that it will inspire others to act on their own values.  That’s why I don’t like the word convert, I prefer inspire or empower.  I never set out to convert anyone.

Whenever I speak on behalf of animals, I make sure I’m clear about this intention.  Before I speak to a group, record a podcast episode, or even answer someone’s question one-on-one, I make sure-in my mind-I’m clear about my intention and my intention is this:

  –To raise awareness about the suffering of animals, to be their voice, and to speak my truth.  That’s it.

Intention is everything and people individually and collectively are smart enough to see right through you if you appear false to them–if you appear to have a hidden agenda, if you are saying one thing by really mean another.  Having a clear intention about your goal and making that goal about truth, rather than outcome, will make you a successful, effective advocate 100 percent of the time.

If someone asks me why I’m vegan, I tell my truth, my story, my reason for being vegan–which is–in short–to not contribute to suffering and violence where I have the power to do so.

Nobody can take away my story.  No one can say “that’s wrong,” or “that’s not true.”  So, if my intention is to raise awareness, be a voice for animals, and speak my truth, my intention will always be met.  My goal will always be accomplished, because I didn’t set out to do anything other than tell the truth, and I may have planted some seeds along the way.”

Thank you for taking the time to read this.  Perhaps it planted a seed or at least inspired you to be mindful to what you are eating.  Awareness is everything……Much love….