In a message dated 8/4/99 12:28:56 PM !!!First Boot!!!, [log in to unmask]
writes:

<< Do you mean to say that cows are spiritual and lions are not?  That
rabbits are more capable of spirituality than hawks? >>

No, of course not, but then again, I'm not so sure that animals are capable
of spirituality at all, because they lack the necessary awareness. I feel
that there is spirituality in (ethical) vegetarianism because it involves
compassion, empathy and selflessness -- qualities that are undeniably
spiritual.

<<Do you mean to say that that man (Chief Seattle) was not spiritual,
because, like the lion, he loved to eat buffalo meat? >>

No, I do not mean to say that, but you cannot compare apples and oranges.
Chief Seattle would probably agree that the methods by which most people get
their meat today is anything but spiritual, and usually does not involve
reverence toward Mother Earth or The Great Spirit. Nor does modern meat
production help foster an understanding or bond between man and his natural
environment, as hunting buffalo did for Native American.

The majority of meat we eat comes from factory farming which is an inhumane,
greedy process that disregards the physical/mental well being of animals for
the sake of greater production and the resulting profits. Where is the
spirituality in that? Do you think that Chief Seattle would approve of
dragging sick or injured animals without mercy to an unceremonious slaughter?
Do you think the Chief would enjoy eating the flesh of an animal that has
never seen the light of day?  I doubt it.  He might even think such a process
would offend the Creator, and I would have to agree with that.

Hunting can be an exception, particularly when it is accompanied by the sense
of awe and thankfulness that was evident in Native American hunting practice.
Another exception was pointed out by Deanna when she shared with us the
guidelines of humane treatment and slaughter of animals as outlined in Jewish
Law, whereby the shochet, or slaughterer must be a person of great
scholarship, sensitivity and piety.

There are many ways to do something (including killing animals) the
difference is the effect the chosen method has on the person who performs it,
and the people who support it. I don't slaughter animals myself, however, I
support the methods which involve the most compassion because it benefits me
spiritually.  ~ Cathy