My Thoughts on Food and Plants

Full Disclaimer!

I want to preface this post by saying this is not to start a debate about what our diets are supposed to be like as witches. This will not be a place for judgement and if I see anyone getting mean in the comment section or baiting people into a non-friendly conversation, I will promptly delete the comments.

This post is simply my view on food/drink and how it plays into my spirituality and practice. If you have a different viewpoint that's fine. :)

Now on to the post!

Being conscious of what you eat and use...

I've been seeing a lot of arguments (here and elsewhere) on whether or not certain diets/lifestyles suit the path of a witch best. These mostly come from those who follow a strict vegan or vegetarian diet. The argument being that the only true way to "harm none" and be a proper follower of certain faiths/beliefs is to not consume any animals or animal products of any kind.
I agree, but also disagree.
Here's the thing, plants are a form of life as well and can have just as much of a negative impact on the environment (and your own personal health) if harvested and used abusively.
A main example for the witchcraft community would be the use of white sage in your fancy smudge sticks. White sage is an endangered species folks, meaning it's about to not exist anymore because of its constant overharvest.
My point is just because something doesn't have a face doesn't mean it's not important or that it doesn't have a considerable impact on our world. Making sure that you source certain herbs and plant products responsibly is just as important as sourcing any animal products responsibly.

Also be grateful...

I think an important message for people to hear is that you should be grateful for what is on your plate regardless of what it is. In almost every continent in the world someone will go hungry today, tomorrow, the day after that, and so on...
Be happy that you have something to eat (whatever that may be). Be grateful to the animal that gave it's life to feed you and your family. Be grateful to the plants that will nourish you and keep you strong and living another day. Be grateful for the clean water you drink and bathe with. And most importantly be grateful for the farmer, hunter, worker, etc. that played key part in making that food and water available to you.
So many of us (myself included, I am by no means perfect...) forget that so many aren't as lucky as us to have food and water available everyday and we forget the hardwork that goes into making those life essentials readily available.

To get a little more personal...

In my personal life and practice I view food as a symbol of love and caring- a main reason why food items are used by me as offerings and kitchen magick is a common practice in my house. :)
I also have come to how important of a role that proper food and water consumption play in both my mental and physical health.
Simply put the healthier and happier the witch, the easier they can harness energy and perform their craft.
So I my own life, (and with a little push from a certain god...) I have been trying to put my health and happiness in the forefront of my mind and take action to create a better me.

A friendly reminder...

This post is not meant to poopoo anyone's personal choices or convince anyone to change their views on food. What I'm trying to say, I guess...is try to remember to be conscious of your decisions. Remember the work that goes into making food available for everyone and remember that being a responsible with plants is as important as being responsible with animals.
I know a lot of you are starting out in gardening for the first time and I'd like you to try and remember to be kind to your plants and thank them for all the food and ingredients that they provide you come harvest time. And if you don't have a food specific plant show appreciation for its ability to filter your air for you or simply give you some company. ?

Hopefully that came across as less rambly to you all that read this as it was in my head...

Anyway, hope you all have a super splendiforous day!

#plantlove

sources: all gifs ( including background ) came from the Giphy app. All rambles and thoughts came from Noelle's brain.