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.