Living Like Lisa Simpson

I remember as a kid, watching The Simpsons on Fox and hating Lisa Simpson. She was this bossy feminist vegetarian liberal lunatic . . . then I realized I've become Lisa Simpson. I am a liberal feminist and recently, I've become a vegetarian.

It's been one year since I first decided to become a vegetarian, and I think the main reason I was successful (besides being motivated by ethical reasons) was because I gradually made the transition to vegetarianism.

At first, I cut out red meat like beef. I had one more McDonald's hamburger and quit red meat cold turkey, but I continued to eat chicken and fish for another week or so. Then, I was willing to let go of chicken and turkey and other white meats. All the while, I was substituting meat for TVP (texturized vegetable product) and other soy products.

There is this huge stereotype that vegetarians eat a lot of salads and tofu. Well, I hate salad and I do not like tofu. I found that TVP can replace any meal that requires ground beef. With the right seasoning, it is hard to believe it isn't the real deal. I also found some immitation breaded chicken and grilled burgers in the vegetarian section at Kroger. Soy burgers are much better than veggie burgers. I have yet to find a good veggie dog or soy dog, though.

The ironic thing is that since I became a vegetarian I have become healthier. I now pay attention to how much protein I take in, take dietary supplements including calcium, vitamin C, D, and B; and exercise daily. I have noticed an increase in energy, a more positive attitude, a more stable appetite, and healthier skin, hair, and nails. It is amazing how one change in your lifestyle can affect your entire way of living.

The last meat I have to give up is fish. I will continue to eat dolphin safe tuna but will most likely give up other types of fish. that is something to chew on for the time being.

Most importantly, I feel good about what I am doing. I don't care what other people do or if other people disapprove; this is my decision. No one told me to be a vegetarian; I decided on my own.

So, it doesn't bother me anymore to be compared with Lisa Simpson. Today, I think she is a cool person. She is a strong woman who stands up for what she thinks is right even if no one else does, and like me, she doesn't believe things just because society taught her to. I think it is important to question your lifestyle and decide for yourself if this is how you want to live.