Any Vegans or Vegetarians out there?

I've been thinking a lot about vegetarianism and veganism. Personally, I don't believe that eating meat is wrong. If you look at the natural world, plenty of animals eat meat. I feel that it's the way things go. Sometimes it's cruel, sometimes it seems wrong, but the way I see it you can't argue with nature.

But I realize that eating a burger at a restaurant where the beef is mass produced and the cattle are raised without regard is a different story. I don't think animal cruelty is acceptable. I don't think beefing animals up with hormones and antibiotics is acceptable either. I also don't agree with the commericialism of it all. I've done some reading, I know about the horror stories and I know about the greed and I know about the environmental aspects.

Currently, I still eat meat, however when I buy it for the most part I try to be responsible about it, buying the free range poulty and beef. I figure at least in those cases I am supporting small(er) business, and the animals, although they ultimately end up on a plate, are given at least some form of existance.

I've always been a little confused about my meat eating, being that I can see both sides of the issue. But as I educate myself and try to act more globally and responsibly, both for myself and the world in general, I find myself more excited by the idea of vegetarianism and veganism.

Anyone here vegetarian or vegan? If so, leave some comments about how and when you became vegetarian or vegan and what made you decide to do it.