My parents have always encouraged me and my sister to make conscious health choices. Constantly working out and trying new diets, meal replacement smoothies, and protein shakes, my parents practically emulate "living a healthy lifestyle." I, however, was always insecure in my body, afraid of how I looked and felt, embarrassed by my weight, and ashamed when my doctor told me my BMI was greater than it should be. So, in Winter of 2016, I toyed around with the idea of going vegetarian or vegan. As I talked to different people about it, I became momentarily deterred from my dietary change. Most people seemed so against it, claiming I was crazy or ridiculous for even considering giving up *gasp* bacon and steak. Others thought I wouldn't be able to last more than three months, which only motivated me, and my over-competitive spirit, further.

But, regardless, on January 1, 2017 I cut all meat and seafood out of my diet cold turkey. The first month was difficult. I had to make most of my own dinners because of the way my carnivorous family centers every meal around some hunk of meat. I struggled to figure out how to get my necessary daily protein intake with an allergy to nuts. And I craved chicken nuggets and burgers. The first month of my new dietary change also happened to be competition season for my dance team and the start of rehearsals for the annual school show, meaning extra-long, exhausting practices followed by another practice, aka very long and stressful days. Eventually, however, I figured out a routine and mastered eating vegetarian.

I lost eight pounds in the first month, and over a year later, I have managed to keep the weight off. Being vegetarian strengthened my discipline, cleared my acne, gave me a body I was confident in and has resulted in me living a healthier and happier lifestyle. Being vegetarian has given me more energy and has pushed me to eat certain foods I would have previously never even considered trying. Being vegetarian has worked wonders for me, my life, and my diet and I'm so glad I've achieved the results I have.

However, in the past year, I have heard more gasps and received more appalled stares than ever before. Simply because of a decision I made to not eat meat. I've heard everything from "Oh my gosh, how do you not crave bacon?!" to "Are you stupid?!" I don't eat meat because I have prioritized my health over a greasy, gluttonous craving, and I'm sick of people giving me grief for it. Part of me believes those who react surprisingly are envious that they do not possess the self-control I've been able to exhibit for the past year. Another part of me has convinced myself that they are judgmental of anyone who chooses differently than them.

Regardless, I have made my choice. I chose my own health and well-being over the norm of consuming meat. I do not judge others for their decision to eat meat and fish or just the latter. So next time you meet a vegetarian, don't respond with wide eyes and a comment about how much you adore meat. Don't respond any differently. Vegetarians are no different than the carnivores around them.