Violence within and between countries because of scarcity of food or unequal access to means of food production. Inefficient use of land due to trends toward meat-intensive diets in industrialized and developing societies. John Woolman asked Friends to consider whether the seeds of war might be found among their possessions. Today he might also ask us to consider whether the seeds of injustice and environmental destruction might be found on our dining tables. Access to land on which to grow food is an issue both in subsistence societies and more affluent societies.
Many farm animals suffer greatly.
Increasing loss of control over food choices deprives us of autonomy. The Earth is generous in her bounties and deserves our thanks and care. The testimony of simplicity calls us to a life filled with the spirit, rather than things. Though food can be a joyful community experience, too much and too rich food, and food which is potentially dangerous to our bodies and to our planet, may be a barrier to a spirit-filled life. Learning more about the consequences of our own food choices, and encouraging others to do so.