Feeling guilty

[wildr0se2]

I still have some products that aren't fully vegan. I lost my mechanical pencil that (I think) was vegan and now I can't find it so I'm stuck with a BIC pen and pencil. On top of that, my medication and vitamins may be animal-derived. I know I can't control my prescription meds, but I wish I thought to set money aside for vegan versions of vitamins. I also don't want to be wasteful by replacing my vitamins (that I still have plenty to get me through the next few months) for vegan versions. I know the idea of being vegan isn't perfectionism, but I'm anxious about not being a good enough animal advocate. I have pretty much phased out animal products in my diet. I also check my clothing to make sure there's no animal furs/leather/etc involved in what I wear. Same with toiletries. The loneliness is also getting to me since I am frequently surrounded by animal product consumers. I am also on the fence about getting a flu and COVID vaccine, knowing that vaccines are usually animal-derived/there's animal testing.

Just needed to vent so I hope I am posting in the right thread.

 

[beancounter]

Don't stress about it. Just do the best you can.

Trying to be 100% perfect will just drive you crazy.

I see that you're in MA. If you live near Boston, I suggest looking up the Boston Vegetarian Society for support (most people are vegan despite the name).

 

[PTree15]

I always look a veganism as a journey, rather than a destination. You are working toward your most "practicable and possible" to avoid animal exploitation, and sometimes, it just takes a while to see where you land. Also, finances can get in the way of working toward your goals, but you are aware and that's key.

Re: loneliness, it's difficult to swim against the tide. I like to think of my efforts as going toward an eventual end to animal consumption, even though I know it likely won't happen in my lifetime. But in my heart, I know I'm helping to pave the way for the possibility of an end to animal cruelty and consumption at some point.