Christmas joy

Are not they cute?

These are Antek and Frantek as teenagers. I know the fate of these two ducklings well. They had a life that was quite unusual for a Peking duck, for they never saw the inside of a saucepan or roasting oven.

Instead, as young ducks, they came to loving people in a beautiful garden with a small pond and a warm house. They lacked nothing. Antek and Frantek were extremely kind and humble creatures. I can still hear their happy chatter as they waddled hurriedly towards a bowl of freshly cut dandelions, their favorite dish. You just had to love her.

Unfortunately, the two ducks had a problem. Bred as Peking ducks for quick meat gain, they soon grew into magnificently large birds of considerable weight. This made it difficult for them as they got older and they developed joint problems. Since it is probably not customary to keep Peking ducks not for consumption purposes, but just because, nobody could say how old the animals actually get, not even the veterinarian.

Well, they died of natural causes after about seven years and a full duckling life.

I have to think of these two today, on the first Advent. As of today, many people are looking forward to Christmas even more. The children are happy because they get nice presents, maybe something they have wanted for a long time. The adults are happy because they have a few days off to rest and eat their fill. Dealers look forward to increased sales… and so on.

Only the animals are not happy. For them it is the biggest battle “fest” of the year. As so-called “farm animals”, millions of them inevitably end up in the mills of the killing machine, which is running at full speed just before Christmas. Every year again.

Whether chickens, geese, turkeys, ducks, pigs, cattle and whatever other animal you can eat – the figures are known and can be looked up for the whole of 2018, for example at the Federal Statistical Office or the Albert Schweitzer Foundation .

Seen in this light, we animal lovers could actually declare Christmas a day of mourning. The feeling of peace and joy does not want to arise when I look at the Christmas consumer behavior. “Ringing Bells” and Murder. Actually perverted.

Nevertheless, I like to wander with my Mowgli in the evenings through the streets of my neighborhood that are decorated for Christmas. The many small lights with which bushes, trees and windows are now clothed convey peacefulness and warmth. Now that it’s winter, we like to retreat to the comfort of our home, light a candle and drink hot tea. Many people think fondly of those close to them. We spend harmonious hours with family and friends, especially in the years between the years.

Couldn’t we extend our love and peacefulness to the animals, at least once a year? They are part of our lives. How about a truce against the animal world, at least for the “Festival of Love”?

There are countless vegetarian and vegan celebratory menus online. Even without soy. Very tasty, rich and healthy. There is no point in putting a link here, there are so many suggestions. Just have a look.

We all actually know that the great peace begins with peace in one’s own heart. Anyone who suffers from cognitive dissonance in view of the animal problem at Christmas could reconsider their Christmas menu, provided it is not already planned as vegetarian, or even better vegan.

It would be one step. Christmas joy with a clear conscience. A glimpse of hope.