Dear Cholly DIY How to Start an AR Group Scavenger Hunt!

Dear Cholly, I get angry and hurt when people try to say that animal abuse is OK or make fun of me because I care so much about animals. Help! —Darby C., Boston, Mass.

Dear Darby, I'd bet my favorite nonleather boots that you ran to the theater to see Shrek, right? Animal rights to many people is a lot like that big, green ogre was to the villagers— strange and scary because it challenges their idea of what is "normal." Some get frightened, others make fun of it—or both. Either way, they're being defensive because they don't understand it.

The animals can't afford for you to become a hermit like Shrek did. Even when people blow off your concern for animals as "unimportant" or tell you that you're nuttier than a jar of peanuts, remember that it's not weird to want others to be caring and respectful toward animals.They just don't realize how easy it is to choose kindness over killing. Calmly and patiently remind them that the animals they eat are much like the companion animals in their homes, that trendy nonleather shoes and accessories are easy to find, and that they themselves have probably got some cruelty-free products on their bathroom and kitchen shelves. Never fear—your efforts will cause many to warm up to the idea of being warm-hearted to animals.

Dear Cholly, How can I "go vegetarian" if I hate vegetables? Grossed out, —Mark K., Shreveport, La.