How can I respect conscious non-vegans?

I have never really met, in person, another vegan before. All the people I know consume animals and their secretions. I have approached them with veganism, explaining the ethical motivations, the health motivations, the environmental motivations. Yet they argue with me, and choose not to adopt veganism. My friend said, "I hope you respect my decision to not be a vegan as I respect your choice to be vegan.". I have difficulty accepting this. I so passionately want to help the animals and share the wonders of the vegan lifestyle. How can I respect their choices? I don't know if I am a fool. I want to respect this decision but it is such a sensitive subject when addressed and then violently refuted. Should I continue pushing for veganism with my loved ones, even if it could destroy a relationship? How am I to go about this in an effective matter? Is it reasonable?

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  • Respect is earned. Why would you want to respect someone that knowingly disrespects other beings, destroys our habitat, ETC. 

    Do not waste your time wanting something for someone more than they want it for themselves. Give it your best shot with everyone and then move on with your life. 

    Be the change you want to see in the world, who knows maybe someday they will become Vegan. But do not waste your time day in day out with people who are not receptive and do not want the info you have to offer. 

    Do not be silent because you are afraid of losing friends ETC. 

  • careful not to come off as a recruiter 'for the cause'. If they respect you, you ought to respect them back. You can help animals by volunteering at animal shelters rather than trying to convince people to change their whole lifestyle. There are more animals than cows and chickens.

  • Read the book "how to win friends and influence people" by Dale Carnegie.
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