So basically today in my english class we were practicing researching and looking at all sides of things. My teachers tarted off with us reading an article from PETA. Those who don't know what PETA is- it's People for Ethical Treatment of Animals. They are people like in the movie "It could happen to you" (with nicholas cage and that bratty wife) when the wife comes out with that big fur coat and they come and splash her with red paint. Anyway- I read the article and was HORRIFIED
! However, I was a little skeptical about some of the things they said, thinking- probably a lot of things were the rare exception. Yet, I was still a little disturbed, and it got me thinking...
THEN, to oppose PETA, our teacher had us read an article from the IFTF (International Fur Trade Federation). This article focused on the industry and how much employment it creates, and the good environment it creates for these animals.
So obviously, I would need to do a little more research to really believe whether or not animals are treated fairly in these farms. However- I don't think I care (obviously I do- I don't want these poor animals gassed and then wake up while they're being skinned--it happens)...what I mean is- either way, I still don't want to wear fir and don't support the fashion. The scriptures talk about not using animals for anything that we don't need- and they also say that all living things have spirits. I just feel like fir is not a necessity in any way shape or form (at least in america- I understand if some countries are cold and need warmth and HAVE to skin animals for warmth) and there is no reason to excessively kill these animals so that we can look like this-
or even-
I know most of you are probably thinking- Danielle, you are crazy! What has gotten into you?!- Well, maybe being married to my husband has softened me up, maybe this has always been lurking inside me just waiting to come out:) I think it's honestly a combination of the two- but I just think that animals shouldn't be killed when it isn't needed- and I acknowlege the fact that animals ARE needed at times. But not to the extent that a lot of us think we do.
I know I will probably get all these comments with facts about factory farms or scriptures or what EVER about how it's okay, or they treat animals okay, and probably people telling me about a billion things I have used or worn that are at the expense of animal lives- but the point is- even if they treat these animals like gold...they are killing them in the end for fashion. And yes, I know I do a lot of things wrong- like I probably shop at places that make kids suffer in foreign countries or something...but I am just taking things that I learn and trying to go one step at a time. Right now, I just so happen to be thinking about animals and how sweet, innocent, and pure their spirits are. So...that's what I'm talking about. I'm not trying to change the world with one big swoop- I am just taking things as they come to me, and trying to do something about it!
I know, I know...I'm a freak! And...of course, my true hippie roots are showing. But, whatever- I just wanted to let you all know, and encourage anyone who might read this to not buy fir. By the way- I'm not judging anyone that does- and I still love you. Please don't act like I am pretending I'm high and mighty for thinking this way, or judging others. I feel that my last controversial topic like this(vegetarianism) was completely misunderstood.
6 comments:
I know you're serious, but I still had to laugh! I agree that we probably shouldn't wear fur in America. I have worn rabbit before and it is incredibly soft. I think in the old days they wore if for fashion and warmth. We don't need it for warmth in this country. I love you!!! even if you have hippie roots!
I can understand how you feel. I don't see how anyone can go out and shoot a Bambi??? How can anyone really do that? I understand if they are really hungry, and there is nothing else to eat. I didn't eat steak for a long time when I was your age because I hated where it came from. I also didn't like moose and caribou in Alaska when we were there. So go figure, I don't think you are that unusual just a girl thinking about life and wondering about it. Don't be so hard on yourself. Love you Lots and Lots
Lots to think about. It has always grossed me out to think of wearing fur. I think it just sounds nasty...dead animal skin draped on you? Yuck. Anyhow, thanks for the info. Love you!
That's kind of funny that you say all of this, because I was just thinking how I think it would be cool to wear a fur coat! I think it's really pretty! BUT- I do agree that it's not necessary. I think it's funny that mom said "I love you even if you are a hippy" because SHE IS A TOTAL hippy! ha. Mike thinks we're all hippies except for dad, he always says, "oh you liberal hippy arnold women." haha. I didn't misunderstand you with the vegan- and I think it's great that you speak your mind and are thinking about these things. Also- I would NEVER think you are high and mighty and think you know more than evertyone else or whatever- I think that you are one of the most righteous people I know, and that's teh truth! I really look up to you. I love you!
oh yeah- and loved the video!
Dan, you're not a freak. We all have these "my eyes are opened" moments. That's how this year has been for me with politics. I hate them now and wish I could avoid it, but I'm forced to be somewhat involved. When you talked about their sweet spirits, you sold me. I didn't give a crap before, but when you said that, I felt bad. Love you.
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