The killing machine

I wish to make note that in the times in which we live, with an economic reality of “kill or be killed,” the entrepreneurial spirit is one to be applauded. However, the senseless and unnecessary acts described in “Going Out for the Kill” [The Straight Dish, Aug. 27] egregiously violate the Golden Rule.

Casey McKissick asserts that “People are thinking about the origins of their meat.” Are they truly? With his slaughterhouse-on-wheels, McKissick does nothing but perpetuate the disconnect that humans have to the food on their plates. Described so explicitly, it is shocking that the majority would not think twice about what their “food” has endured.

Whether raised on factory farms controlled by Tyson or on independent local operations, chickens are sentient, living beings. They each endure pain and suffering before being killed at a fraction of their life natural span.

My curiosity lies in what it will take for people to shift into a lifestyle that is truly sustainable and compassionate. While this “gleaming silver unit” is operated in WNC, it is still using fossil fuels, water and other resources to butcher animals because farmers and consumers are incapable of doing much more than contracting for slaughter or bringing a fork to their mouths.

My hope is that many who read “Going Out for the Kill” will remember the horrific description of the mobile death cart when facing the “What’s for dinner?” dilemma. And, Mr. McKissick, I have never truly seen a chicken dance, but my instinct tells me that it is not “dancing” to its death; rather, it is instinctually struggling—perhaps seemingly in rhythm—for its life.

— J. McCormack
Fairview

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12 thoughts on “The killing machine

  1. let’s not start one of those endless conversations where vegetarians try to convince the 98% of us that eat meat we are despicable.

    just please be quiet and clean your plate or you’ll get no desert.

  2. xvelouria

    Thank you for this letter.

    I also like the term “mobile death cart”. Appropriate and succinct.

  3. Carrie

    I live next door the McKissick farm. I think what they are doing is a wonderful addition to the community. I applaud them.

    Although, Ralph, I have to say, I’m a meat lover but might be the only one who doesn’t like bacon. People look at me like I’m insane. (which I am)

  4. Yes, you are, Carrie. ;-)

    Bacon makes EVERYTHING better … For example, the next time you order a tuna fish salad sandwich in a restaurant, ask them to add bacon. … seriously, it is GOOD.

  5. d

    All of the carrots i eat are brought from california via a magic air-car with zero emmissions.

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