Minimal Meat Eater

Once upon a time I became an ovo-lacto vegetarian. I felt enlightened, evolved. I was in college and there were many things I was becoming educated and passionate about; politics, philanthropy, and animal rights. A couple of years later I gave into temptation, cravings, and other influences from my Appalachian culture. I only sometimes indulge in eating meat-like products. There are still many types and forms of meat that I do not eat. When I eat meat, I do prefer fake meat or fast food such as chicken nuggets and McD's (soybean) burgers. I think it's much like an affordable leather sofa; it can only be 10% genuine for the price. And yes I am trying to rationalize eating meat. I blame my upbringing, influences, and lack of affordable and convenient vegetarian options comparably. I do think eating meat is morally wrong and nutritional unnecessary. So I wrestle with my lack of conviction and will-power. When I became an enlightened vegetarian, I was very vocal about it. Now that I have decided to call myself a "Minimal Meat Eater", I am a little more reserved when discussing my diet. One day, I'll pack a cheese sandwich in my "No Animals In Here" bag from PETA and my co-workers will ask, "Are you a vegetarian?" A few days of good conscious eating later, I give in to having a hot dog served in the cafeteria and almost want to hide. My diet confuses my co-workers and I try to explain by coming up with this term. But why? Whose business is it anyway? I don't really have a "diet", I eat what I want, when I want, and I don't eat what I don't. I have no self-discipline; I am an American born and raised, forgive me. Before the golden arches, I kneel and confess my shame.