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Do you have questions about being vegan? Send them
to Jo using this easy form.
She would be happy to address your individual concerns
as well as general inquiries about vegan ethics, philosophy,
practical applications, and living compassionately.
Jo cannot respond to questions about nutrition or
answer questions that have already been addressed in
the Archives
Jo will make every attempt to answer each question
personally, however, due to her schedule, this may not
be possible. If a reply is forthcoming, it could take
up to a few weeks, so please be patient. It is also
possible that your question will be answered directly
in the "Ask Jo!" column rather than an individual
response.
If you'd like to view previous questions Jo has
answered, visit the Ask Jo! Archives.
Child
Care Job Conundrum
I have worked with young children for
over twenty years, and I have loved every minute of
it. Recently I decided to look for opportunities outside
of my current place of employment to enhance my professional
development as well as to supplement the family income.
At a recent child care conference I ran into two old
friends who invited me to visit their facility. Much
to my surprise, they offered me a position! The job
has the promise of advancement, and I would be working
in a state-of-the-art, nationally-accredited child care
center with ideal co-workers, an excellent salary, benefits,
and great hours. In addition, I have the support and
encouragement of family and friends. The only problem
I have is reconciling where the center is located --
our local Army armament command and research center.
What should I do?
 It
is great news that you have been offered what sounds
like the job of your dreams and have an opportunity
to work with wonderful people and be well compensated.
You are right, however, that an Army research center
certainly conflicts with vegan values. Military research
is among the most gruesome. If you will be situated
anywhere near that part of the facility, it could be
very difficult for you to endure. On the other hand,
if your work does not directly support the Army's efforts,
and there is no tangible connection with the armament
command and research center, then there appears to be
no overt quandary. If you do not teach the children,
someone else will, and that person's perspective may
not be as loving and compassionate as yours.
It is important for children to be taught
about peace, kindness, and respect for all life, regardless
of the setting, even if it is one that seems to blatantly
contradict these ideals. In fact, in such environments
it is perhaps even more crucial for these values to
be conveyed to youngsters.
Only you can assess the full situation,
weigh your needs and comfort level, explore your involvement
(or lack thereof) with the research segment of the command
post, and determine if what you have to offer the children
overshadows any drawbacks to the location. I cannot
tell you what choice to make, but if you listen to your
heart, you will be guided to the right decision.
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