The KInd Life Community Forum

I've been vegan for three years. Initially, I started on this path to lose weight (and I did: 65 lbs!). I wish my starting movitation had been about something less superficial. However, over the years, other wonderful changes have occured and I have this kind way of eating to thank: I'm at peace, can think things through calmly (no more flying off the handle, which was the norm for many, many years). My energy is through the roof.
All very good things. However ...
My family and friends really have been supportive the whole time. OK, a little fun is poked now and again, but nothing malicious. They've enjoyed the food I cook, and have even gone out of their way to fix vegan-friendly fare for me. Because they love me.
As time goes on, though, I realize that none of them are going to change the way they eat. I mean, it IS always possible they might pick up Alicia's book (I've certainly talked it up big time the past two years!) and decide to change their ways. But ... I don't know. I have my doubts. That's probably bad to say, but it just feels that way. And I'm not a "pushy" vegan, just not in my nature to be like that.
Sorry it's taking so long to get to the point! What I fear is that I'm going to lose all these people I love long before I kick off. I realize nobody knows when they'll die, I do. But I feel like my chances of living a long, healthy life have been greatly improved with this lifestyle. I'm going to continue. But it does make me really sad that because these people whom I love so very much aren't concerned too much for their health ... I'm going to be awesomely healthy into old age ... but all alone.
Oh, I probably sound crazy. But thank you for letting me get this off my chest! Who knows? Maybe I'll meet some kick-ass elderly vegans, as time goes on.

Thanks, Bev. I cringed after hitting "add response" to that, afraid I was gonna get a bunch of "Why are you obsessing over death, you crazy lady?" responses. I honestly don't obsess on it, but must admit it's been on my mind lately. My father passed a few years ago, type II diabetes, and my mom is headed down that path. I've got some friends with health issues ... so, yeah.

Thank you, again. Your comment helps :)