As I browsed the buffet’s dinner selection, I skimmed at all the vegetarian choices. A quick lap around the buffet was enough for me to know my limited options. As frustrating as it seems, I came to accept that there were generally less choices for lifestyles like mine, but before I could start picking what I wanted, a colleague of mine introduced me to the buffet’s escargot egg rolls. Although simple on the outside, my colleague convinced me with how unexpectedly delicious & delightful it really is. Just try it, she said, Just one bite. I was still reluctant knowing I already was a few months in on my new lifestyle. Trust me, it’ll change your life. And so I did. Just one bite. And it was more than enough to change my life.
I felt ashamed in quiet, chewing yet struggling to swallow. I thought to myself, If you felt compelled to eat this from just a simple conversation, how can you combat grander desires? It put my life into perspective; if people who have less can endure more than me, what does that say about me? Lingering in my mind, this question taunted every decision I made, and the constant reminder guided the transition from my old and into my current lifestyle.
