Intern Lily shares some insight into her commitment to make some small (but powerful) changes in her own life that help support all animals’ right to live liberated lives free of cruelty.
Since interning at Chenoa, my perspective upon the value of life has been greatly enriched and escalated. When you experience the benefits of giving these animals a second chance, it proves how meaningful and joyous their lives can be. Because of this, I now have the ability to truly comprehend how my actions can affect the lives of others.
Prior to this internship, I was an on and off vegetarian. It was difficult for me to fully commit to a diet solely supported by meatless products. But once I gained understanding of a true reason to why I was abandoning the consumption of meat in my diet, the process became effortless. This is because of the opportunity and experiences Chenoa has provided me with. For me, I know whichever animal may be on my plate, has an opportunity for a much better life. A life without constraint, pain, and planned execution. When working at Chenoa, you see these beautiful animals grazing and residing freely. So you begin to question why every animal can’t enjoy that lifestyle?
As I thought about this question more, I began to understand why this dream was unattainable. I discovered a new frustration regarding humanity’s permanent dependency on animal suffering. We have exploited other species to support ourselves for so long, that converting the world to a more animal-welfare conscious state would be near impossible. To many, animals are seen as nothing but an object. Many people’s jobs and lives are supported by the manufacturing of animal products. Many people’s diets consist of predominantly animal-based meals. Many people’s wardrobes are filled with jackets and purses bedazzled with the remains of poached creatures. We have forcefully taken the shirts off of these animals’ backs, in order to keep ourselves warm. We are practically wading through a deep dependency on animal agonization, almost to a point where it is impossible to get out.
As my frustration continued to boil, I thought of simple life changes I can practice in order to reduce animal suffering:
- The largest is to cut out as much dairy, egg, and meat products from my diet as possible, in order to minimize my footprint on the animal agriculture industry.
- The next is to be conscious and educated about the dangers of animal tourism. To make sure I am not supporting any zoos, attractions, or photo opportunities that wrongfully sourced or treated their species.
- Another is to improve my understanding of where my everyday products and clothing are coming from. For example, to make sure I am only purchasing from cruelty free, vegan, and humane brands.
- Lastly and most importantly, is to give back and advocate for the speechless animals who are undergoing unnecessary and brutal treatment.
The biodiversity within this world is truly remarkable. But as we continue to instigate and practice acts of cruelty on animals, this gift will be taken away. We should view animals as beings to coexist with, not just beings to make a profit from. As I have learned, life is a beautiful thing. Therefore, animals should have every right to occupy their lives in liberation, as we all should.