Ben said:
>btw, while we're on the topic of perception, I'm facing a bit of a dillemma.
>I'm about to head back to school, and back into the scrutiny of peers my
>age.  In particular, I'll be living in the dorms with tons of other young
>people my age.
>The bottom line is this:  any suggestions for us younger folks who have a
>great deal of problem fitting in with other people who are wary of our raw
>food?  Although I'm not too concerned about "fitting in," per se, I'm concer
>ned with developing the "screw you if you can't understand me" attitude
>towards people and therefore alienating myself.  I would be very grateful
>for any suggestions on this topic.  Thanks.

Jo sez:
My relationships with people in my life will hinge upon how much
acceptance, trust, and respect I have for my own choices and decisions. How
I view myself will be reflected in how I am treated by others.

If I'm constantly apologetic about slicing into a slab of raw tuna in front
of my friends; adamant that my diet represents my life purpose or describes
my essence; or forceful about my dietary preferences to my "ignorant"
friends in order to save them; yes, some of these people may not enjoy my
company and I probably wouldn't benefit from such a strained relationship
as well. I become the guy who eats raw tuna.

Instead I choose to feast straightaway on my mangoes and celery and
continue gabbing about Ginger Spice (OK, Jimi Hendrix); through my own
acceptance of who I am, it's obvious to my friends that I have many facets
beyond my diet that they find engaging; I have no agenda about saving
anyone; I don't find their burgers and weenies disgusting nor do I feel the
need to lecture about nitrates and Red-2. We're justing having a good time
together. I'm just another dude who brought mangoes for lunch.

There's just no opportunity to develop a "screw you I'm unique" attitude.

The only time I feel any external judgement is when I aim that same harsh
spotlight on myself.

Have fun Ben, and be comfortable with yourself. Everything else is trivial.