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The journey of veganism begins today. Thanks to my wife and her discovery of Vegan Week developed by Alturnative[dot]com, we are living the next seven days through the eyes (and stomach) of a vegan. I expect this lifestyle experiment to challenge me as well expose my mind and body to better practices. It could lead to a total change in how I view food and its role in my life.

I’ve always admired the dedication of vegetarians and vegans – especially those who embrace despite growing up consuming meat and dairy products. When I visit the Farmer’s Market, my taste buds are always tantalized by the tanginess of Sorrell leaves, fresh gelato and non-dairy chocolate pudding (made with avacados). I am truly a fan – although not a loyal practitioner.

I often chuckle at my sister-in-podcasting, Anji Bee, when she posts her vegan dishes on Facebook. Most recently, I discovered one of my favorite music producers, Ahmed Sirour, is also vegan; thereby debunking my myth that black men don’t do the whole vegan thing (I also learned Common & Russell Simmons are vegan as well).

After reading The China Study and 4-Hour Body, I have a healthy education on the benefits of veganism/raw food and how it can improve my overall health. As a black man, I always hear about our predisposition for heart disease, hypertension and diabetes. I cannot accept that is a result of genetics as much as it is generational habits that have been passed down through generations. I believe that journeys like Vegan Week will lead me towards breaking the generational curse of poor food choices that trigger those diseases.

I am going to become vegan?

I don’t know. This is just Day One and I’m no stranger to excluding certain foods from my diet. I’ve done the 10-day master cleanse three (3) times in my life. God delivered me from a cigarette smoking addiction – allowing me to quit cold turkey and not have so much as a craving. I know I can do anything.

I see you, Vegan Week. Let’s do this.