Let Freedom Ring

lokah samastah sukhino bhavantu

May ALL Beings Everywhere Be Happy and Free

And May My Thoughts, Words and Actions Contribute in Some Way

As July 4th approaches, we all start making our plans on how to celebrate the holiday.  We plan our beach days, cookouts, fireworks and parties!  The fourth of July is an all American holiday and celebrates our independence as Americans. 

We are free in so many ways!  We are free to live how we want, say what we want, think what we want and many more.  At times, I believe we take our freedom for granted.  We forget that others around the world do not have our lifestyles.  Doesn't everyone want ALL beings EVERYWHERE to be happy and free?!  We do!  But how can we help?  How can we contribute to the freedom of all beings? 

We can align our thoughts and words in a way that can contribute to freedom of all.  We can pray for others around the world and think positive thoughts about our neighbors and strangers.  If your mind is in the right place, then it will help your actions contribute to freedom for all.  Showing compassion towards all beings (people, animals, bugs, trees, Earth, etc) will in turn give you freedom and others!  A wonderful way to show compassion is in the way we eat.  We seek freedom and happiness, yet three times a day we eat animals that have no freedom or will of their own.  Every time we pick up our fork, we have the POWER to share compassion through our actions.  That is a great feeling.  We are that powerful!  Choosing the right food options for your fourth of July cookout can make such a difference in the Independence of animals in America.

What better way to celebrate than a Good Old American Vegan Cookout!

Here are some great recipes for your 4th of July Freedom Meal!

Black Bean Burger on the Grill

2 15 oz. cans of black beans rinsed and drained

1/2 whole wheat flour

1/4 c yellow cornmeal

1/2 c salsa

2 tsp ground cumin

                  1 tsp garlic salt

Place beans in a food processor until smooth.  Add flour, cornmeal, salsa, cumin and garlic salt.  Process until combined.  Scoop into burgers and refrigerate for 1-4 hours.  Grill!  Serve on Whole Wheat buns.

                    Vegan Potato Salad

2 lbs of russet potatoes, diced in 1/2 inch pieces

2 tsp of white vinegar

1/2 c veganaise

1/2 c unsweet soy milk

1 tsp of salt

1 1/2 ts celery seed

1 c. sliced celery

1/2 c finely chopped onion

1/4 c slices radishes

Boil potatoes for 6-8 min or until tender.  Drain and place in a bowl.  Sprinkle warm potatoes with the vinegar.  In a separate bowl, whisk vegan mayo, soy milk, salt and celery seed.  Toss dressing with potatoes, celery and onions.  Chill for one hour and top with radishes.

Red, White and Blue Fruit Salad

Layer in a trifle dish

Strawberries

Blueberries 

Soy Whip Cream

 

Add some grilled veggies on the side  and you have yourself a healthy, cruelty free independence day meal!

Go Vegan and you can celebrate INDEPENDENCE DAY EVERY DAY!!