Coming out Vegan/Vegetarian

Gosh, I want to win this prize so badly! LOL, but true! I have been a vegetarian most of my life, playing the dual role of living with people who eat meat, and doing "my own thing". I cooked two different meals daily, one for them, and one for me, and no one cared. When I became a vegan two years ago, and I decided that no more bringing animal products into my home, and that I would go veganist, I noticed a huge shift in the way my relationships became strained. Every one though they were being judged, and felt guilty that they didn't profess the same feelings, so I solved that by ringing my own food wherever i go, and sharing my culinary dishes with them. Slowly they are choosing some vegan options when they are with me, and even though they love me, they always say "I love my meat more"! My girlfriend's husband is so offended by my not eating meat, he was going to bring a large roast beef to an outdoor concert we were attending together to offend me. They cancelled going to see James Taylor at TAnglewood, just because my girlfriend had enough compassion for me to disengage from the event. So, with the ever more commitment I have made to have a gentle voice, and speak up about my choices in a way that allows freedom of choice for all, I have joined Will Tuttle's WPD facilitator course to learn how to bring the message to others in a way that is wholesome and inclusive, and loving. i have along way to go to be a "Brendan", but I am learning everyday. Thank you.