I have been a vegetarian for about seven years. I started off by cutting red meat from my diet, but I still ate chicken and fish. Soon, however, I stopped eating chicken as well. I didn’t really like fish, so I didn’t eat much to begin with. Then, I realized that fish are animals, too, so I decided not to eat any fish either.

When people find out that I’m a vegetarian, they often say something such as, “I could never live without hamburgers!” I explain that I remember liking the taste of meat, but I just don’t eat it.

I first decided to become a vegetarian because I didn’t think it was fair to kill animals simply for our desire to eat them. As I have become older, however, the process by which many animals are slaughtered has become my main concern. A friend once tried to assure me that there are laws against unjust methods of killing animals, but there are always people who disobey laws.

I have also heard that the animals aren’t always kept in healthy conditions. Some are penned into small areas, and many are fed with artificial preservatives and nutrients to keep the meat fresh for people to eat.

I understand that our ancestors simply had to eat animals to survive. They didn’t have the kind of resources we have now. We can get all kinds of different fruits and vegetables now, and many things are made with soy, so I can still get a good amount of protein without eating meat.

One idea that I want people to understand is that many vegetarians aren't trying to convert everyone. If a friend is eating meat near me, they might apologize, but it really doesn't bother me. I don't expect everyone to cut meat from their diet just because I have. Meat is a big part of many cultures, and I respect that.

The only comments that bother me are when people say that my food is disgusting. I won't criticize your cheeseburger, so don't criticize my tofu!