Silent Revolution: Growing numbers of Europeans becoming Buddhists & turning to vegans/vegetarians
The Europeans are waking up. They are beginning to realize that money cannot buy happiness, that capitalism has not provided mental solace, that meat consumption has caused endless health issues and their searching minds have discovered the richness in the scientifically proven philosophy of Buddhism. Coupled to this awakening, Europeans and in particular the Germans have revolutionized the food industry be introducing a whole new range of plant-based vegan foods that are hitting the market and generating enthusiasm among health-conscious people who abhor the idea of having to slaughter animals to obtain meat. Buddhism has become a solace to Europeans seeking freedom from capitalist competition, a new health benefit and the compassion derived by saving sentient beings from becoming slaughtered. A lesson for the entire world too.
The realization that money cannot buy happiness and whatever wealth man remains unfulfilled and dissatisfied has brought upon the realization that life and capitalism has not brought people the inner satisfaction and inner freedom that people are silently searching for. Buddhism has become an alternate to never ending materialism. The tranquillity they have found in Buddhism has shaped the lives of a growing number of Europeans in particular the Germans since philosopher Arthu Schopenhauer influenced the first German Buddhists some 100 years ago. There are said to be close to 4m Buddhists in Europe.
The rise in Europeans embracing Buddhism is complimented by the fact that those who had been previously vegan/vegetarian have discovered that the teachings of Buddha compliments their choice of food.
Vegetarians do not eat animals while vegans also do not eat animals but also avoids all dairy products, eggs and anything else derived from animals.
Vegan foods are entirely plant based (animal based enzymes and milk are not present). There are plenty of vegan foods available across Europe and inside supermarkets. There are on-line vegan shopping available too. These need to be now marketed across the world simultaneously encouraging people to grown plants and trees since development has raped the forests and uprooted what has been naturally gifted to man. Essentially, what we must learn to understand is that despite the quench for wealth we cannot afford to bring to ruin means of sustenance and we must at all times seek a win-win situation.
That the food industry is seeing a revolution take place coupled and complimented with the discovery that Buddhism has brought solace to people mentally and physically suffering from face-paced, competitive and never-ending cycle of capitalism we see a silent revolution taking place in the West.
These revolutionary vegan foods must be made available in the Asian markets as well.
Shenali D Waduge
Additional reference:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Reformhaus
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