Our appetite governs us. We have to examine it. Appetite is applied to all aspects of our lives. I will only touch upon our appetite which is fueled by our desire. This desire relates to having a healthy and long life. We are not looking closely as to how it affects our environment when we seeking the key of longevity and wellbeing. At what cost does it come?
We are advised to do so many things and if we start following it, it can cause mayhem in our lives. Let me start with eating five fruits and vegetables in the day. The suggestions are one apple, orange or banana; two plushily an avocado; one slice of melon; a handful of berries. The vegetables are two broccoli spears, three heaped tablespoons of cooked vegetables. At what length do we go to have all this.
It is an unrealistic expectation, which can only be afforded by the rich. In India, we have bananas and most of us growing up had a banana daily. In Europe and America, it was apples. It is still said that an apple a day keeps the doctor away. Also drinks like Bourn Vita, and Horlicks which are supplements added in the milk are promoted. Unfortunately, in India, many people believed this and they would go to great extents to buy an apple or a drink supplement for their child.
Also, the sad part is that the food for the herbivores is in short supply. Since we wish to eat berries, fruits and exotic vegetables we are poaching on their food.
I am not complaining but when one buys fruit which comes from South America or other continents, does one think of the carbon footprints? Sweet potatoes from South America, Walnuts from Chile, mangoes from Africa, and the list goes on.
Thinking of the consequences
Do you know we are overfishing the oceans. Sardines are in short supply. They have become so expensive. The sea creatures are deprived of them because of over consumption. They were once the cheapest fish; I used to give my cat boiled sardines. Krill is high in Omega3s, and it prevents heart attacks. Now Krill is the main food source for many large whales’ species. Krill is in short supply for these large mammals. Penguins are starving. Because we are eating Krill capsules and other crustaceons.
Where does this end? The rain forests have been converted into palm oil plantations and this threatens the biodiversity and ecosystems. Will we continue to destroy and pillage the resources of Mother Earth, without thinking of the consequences?
Dear ones, it is very distressing how we think only of ourselves. I have a proverb for you.
A cat that dreams of becoming a lion must lose its appetite for rats.
Meaning is you must let go of old habits that hold you back to achieve greatness.
Be thoughtful, considerate and aware when you eat.
Aim Hrim Klim