I am finding this change difficult.

The goal of this post is to shed some light on how I view change and taking a stance for something you believe in. I feel that all too often, people frown upon those who strive for environmental change and label them as individuals who are going through 'a phase' or as someone who is becoming a fringe member of society. My green values for example are not coming easily to me. When I became a vegetarian, many in my family were skeptical and did not appreciate fully why I decided to make that change. Plus, I LOVE meat.

I am also trying to consume less. I would however not like to be so quickly put in the "hippie" category and brushed aside. I am constantly in conflict with myself about how absolute or flexible I should make my goals because I want to still be status quo and yet still be able to have some credibility in what I say in discussions with people.

Another example: I want to feel beautiful. I see images in magazines and on the television. I watch "What not to wear" and see how new clothes and make-up can transform a person and give them confidence. But I want to consume less. I value modesty and meeting needs, not wants. I also believe that beauty comes from within (though through my experiences, I am not quite so sure anymore). This is a constant struggle and it is incredibly difficult. I want to buy haircare products and jewelery. I want nicer skin and killer pumps and purses. I want all that.

But what of my values? Where do they fit?

To conclude, I want to encourage those who are trying to make change, even when you feel society may not be on your side, to keep going. I recognize that change is difficult and requires sacrifices and I applaud you.