Hey folks. It looks like thus far I am the old man here, not just age wise but in terms of being vegetarian. I have been vegetarian for32 years now. the last 16 of those 32 yrs has been spent living with full blown aids. I truly think being vegetarian is part of the reason I am still alive. I also try to eat organic as much as possible which also helps. There are so very many reasons I became vegetarian I won't go into all of them. A major factor was reading such books as The Population bomb, Silent spring, Diet for a small planet while travelling around the worls by ship. I saw the poverty and death in other parts of the world. T that time the U>S. consumed 75% of the worlds resources while having only less than 1/10th of the population. I was shocked and my body, not my mind made changes that are still with me to this day. I read another guys post about putting into his personal ad that he is veg and getting few responces... Imagine THAt coupled with saying you are hiv Poz!!!. I am NOT complaining guys. I have a very blessed life. I have shelter I can afford in an incredible spot on the planet, Santa cruz California, I am involved in two great men's groups, and I have great , loving friends. I am currently preparing for a gathering of Radical Faeries in Wolf Creek Oregon. this place is a sancturary for gay . bi, questioning men. Aplace to explore your soul, to connect with the earth. To connet with other veg gay men and to grow spiritually and personally. the gathering starts on Fri, Aug4 and goes til Aug. 13th. A long time to challenge oneself and grow. I am truly blessed to be able to be here. Generally Faerie gatherings are vegetarian meals, though there is a slight shift beginning to take place. the stars are incredible tonight. Life is good, blessed be. I am not certain how much computer access I will have while here, but look forward to hearing from everyone.... Ciao, Rick