The intent is to educate; not to change.

Often when we set out to educate the public on the way things are occurring for animals in a particular situation, we expect an outcome; for the person or people being educated to change right then and there. This could look like the fur-wearer deciding to no longer wear fur, or the circus-goer swearing off circuses. There is an assumption that the new information will somehow so rivet them, that they will make life-altering changes right then and there. While it is always amazing to see that take place, this should never be an expected outcome.  When we expect someone to change who they are based on our thoughts and opinions, we are disempowering them to make their own decisions and undermining their intelligence. More importantly, we are robbing them of the privilege of self-growth and discovery!

Think of the first time you were in a serious relationship with a partner, spouse, or significant-other. Did you just walk into that relationship know how to be a spouse? There is an adjustment period of learning to start considering every day decisions and choices as being one that not only affect you, but affect your spouse. It wasn’t just about learning the little things, such as their favorite type of orange juice, or adjusting to how she may leave her make-up out on the bathroom counter or how he always leaves the toilet seat up. It was actually a full lifestyle change and becoming something different than who you have been before; a spouse. Now, how much did that change for you once you were married or together for a little bit longer? Overtime, you became so used to being a spouse, that it just became second nature and part of who you were, and not something that you necessarily have to think about as much. You were just a spouse. Now, what would have happened if, when you first got together with your spouse, they demanded that you be a spouse right away. No learning period, no adjustment period; just be a spouse NOW! Talk about pressure!

Now consider this; when you, the animal advocate, is educating a non-advocate on an issue facing animals today, and expect them to make a lifestyle change based on what you told them,  you are being the person demanding that the newlywed be a spouse NOW. Remember, you are already the person that, much like a more seasoned spouse, knows these issues like the back of your hand, and you know how to take a stand for animals without giving it a second thought. Moreover, you are already living into the lifestyle that allows for the possibility of changes to it based on changes in the world of animals. You do not see changing your life choices based on ethical decisions as a problem because that is just the lifestyle to which you have become accustomed.

The next time you are educating someone, try approaching them from the standpoint of sharing information with them. Don’t expect them to change who they are based on what you say; don’t even expect them to agree. You may just be surprised on the outcome.