When I was young, I lived near a slaughterhouse. Every day at daybreak, I heard the screaming of pigs when they were tortured and stabbed to death with a spear, and I could not bear to hear their terrifying cries. Although I covered my ears, scenes of the cruel slaughter would still come into my mind.

Surely, for me, as a result of this experience, eating pork is a terrible thing. Although many people in the world like pork because they find it delicious after it is cooked and seasoned with spices, they do not know the fear that pigs feel when they are cruelly slaughtered. I do hope that I can always remain alert and never eat meat for the rest of my life!

I once heard from a butcher that buffaloes know when they are about to be slaughtered. Tears immediately and silently fall from their eyes. They look pathetic! And what happens when doves are killed for food? The killer wraps his hands around the dove's neck until it is strangled to death under water. The animals die while experiencing fear, hatred, and suffering. Actually, animals are like us. They are as afraid to die as we are. If we reflect on the fact that all beings in the world have the same inherent desire to live, if we see things the way they do, then we will not want to hurt them.

When I realized people's cruelty toward animals, I stopped eating meat and now follow a vegetarian diet. I try to develop love in my heart and elevate myself spiritually. It is easier to find vegetarian restaurants today than it was in former times. If you want to eat out, you can easily find vegetarian fast food restaurants in many areas. Besides, the food tastes delicious, contains much nutrition, and is good for one's health.

As a result of my vegetarian diet, I have become more patient and forgiving, with no hatred or desire for vengeance in my heart. Perhaps it is the food I eat that has greatly influenced my mental outlook. I must also thank Master for Her blessings.
My curious daughter once asked me, "Why are some Buddhists vegetarian? Why do some eat eggs, and you don't? What is the difference? Which Buddhist sect do you belong to?" I told her that I did not eat meat because of my love for sentient beings and that eggs also contain life, so I don't eat them.

I hope that one day all human beings will give up meat and eggs and become vegetarians. Let us extend our love and treat all beings with compassion.