I did not anticipate feeling the way I did today. The roughly 15 or so regulars at the weekly support group were for the last time treated to a cooking class and subsequently led by Dr. Ask, through our final recovery session. Oddly enough, it felt more like a beginning than an ending.

While some individuals conveyed their intent to return to carnivorous habits after our month officially ends on the 7th, others had influenced their families sufficiently to turn their respective households into plant munching vegetarians. I was moved by the thoughtful insights we collectively shared about our experiences. I usually lead discussions about public health in the classroom environment. Today there were no leaders. It did not matter who held what degree or title, we shared our struggles, successes, and failures as equals.

Perhaps it was the vulnerability associated with public risk taking. Perhaps it was the adrenaline rush of a new adventure. Or just maybe it was the camaraderie I felt with our challenge participants, as we indulged in the delightful fruits of living the University’s motto –to make man whole. For my part, the Challenge has been a professional highlight that has revitalized my sense of purpose and commitment to public health.

Tomorrow: Does milk do a body good?

This entry was posted on Wednesday, January 30th, 2008 at 9:07 pm and is filed under Vegetarian Challenge. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed.