Veganism and Sacrifice

"I’m vegan and have been wondering about the food choices at retreats. When I talk about being vegan, it’s like saying I’m six-foot-two – it’s just a fact, not an identity. Could you speak to this? Rupert says: ‘I don’t have an opinion about what other people eat. I respect everyone’s freedom absolutely. When Mischa spoke earlier about eating eggs again to feel less separate from his girlfriend, I thought how generous it would be for him to make that sacrifice for her. It would be like a gift – it would bring them closer. She would no longer feel judged, no longer feel on the other side of a line. That would bring them much closer. I think the fish might possibly willingly sacrifice its life for that closeness. We can’t say for certain, but why not? The fish might be delighted that Mischa and his girlfriend become that much closer. But I respect your choice completely. I don’t give people advice about what they should eat. I very rarely suggest what someone should do, and if they don’t take up my suggestion, I respect them for it.’"

From event 05 - 12 October, 2025 Seven-Day Retreat at Garrison Institute, 5–12 October 2025

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