Matt, my friend
Matt Halteman is a true friend. We have had countless conversations on the phone and in person—topics ranging from perfumes to art to fashion (vegan, of course). We have discussed dance practice and soccer practice. Matt has made vegan cocktails and chocolate mousse for my husband and me, and when he could not make us food, he provided us with the most delicious catered vegan pizza and sushi. I have not only laughed hysterically in his home, I have sobbed like a little girl. Shaking, but with no shame as he and his wife and daughter embraced me. He is a friend; I put that out there because I am proud. But it in no way causes bias on my part. The real key to friendship is raw honesty. When I attempted to express my feelings in words earlier this year, Matt reviewed my essay and elegantly ripped my thoughts to shreds. I was so grateful for his benevolent censure. Before my crisis, Matt allowed me to review his manuscript for Hungry Beautiful Animals: The Joyful Case for Going Vegan....