Gentle World Archives - Gentle World

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Introducing Hein’s Kitchen!

December 23, 2022

Based in Chapel Hill, NC, Hein's Kitchen is the creation of Hein Nang, an upcoming vegan chef extraordinaire and one of Gentle World's 2022 visitors! We're proud to say that Hein made his vegan commitment right here at our Hawaii center. :)

A World Restored

December 22, 2022

I knew that as long as there were people who perceived life this way, and talked about justice in its true form, there was hope in this world for other animals.

The Growth of Veganism

December 13, 2022

We recently got together with James Cox from Human Insights, who interviewed Gentle World’s founder Light about his 50+ years of veganism. They were joined by Gentle World’s Outreach Director Angel Flinn, to discuss the hope that veganism brings.…

An Update on Fawn

November 30, 2022

It’s so easy to take for granted those whom we love, but we thought we might lose little Fawn recently when two vets told us that the irregular tissue we had noticed in her left eye was likely a tumor,…

“Vegan Light of Hope” with Light and Angel

November 13, 2022

On November 4th, Gentle World joined Mariquita Solis for an 'Empowered Vegans' livestream.

Compassion Consortium Sunday Service

September 13, 2022

Light and Angel are welcomed by Victoria Moran as guests of The Compassion Consortium, a non-sectarian and interfaith religious center.

Gentle World’s Founder on the Airwaves

June 11, 2022

After 52 years of vegan life, Light’s extraordinary experience has given him a unique perspective that is guaranteed to inspire, and his recent appearances on various vegan podcasts have given him the chance to do just that.

Two Gentle World volunteers plant string beans in our Hawaii veganic demonstration garden

The Best Decision I’ll Ever Make

April 20, 2022

At the young age of 18, Abby and Hein came to Gentle World excited and enthusiastic for the opportunity to learn new skills and see life from a new perspective.

Three volunteers sit at the Gentle World table at our vegan visitor center in Hawaii

Something We Will Never Forget

March 31, 2022

Ana and Diogo came to us from Brazil, uncertain of how to be vegan in a country that isn't so vegan-friendly! After learning about the vegan philosophy, and how to find vegan options in Brazil, they left here inspired and excited to step into their new vegan lives.

Using My Voice

March 24, 2022

Thank you for teaching me, Gentle World. You have grounded me in my morals, thoughts, and actions. I know the future of the planet's health relies on my generation. I will do my absolute best to ensure we set a new precedent of standards.

The Best Experience of my Life

March 20, 2022

Gentle World taught me more than I can put into words and gave me a new perspective on life -- not just my life, but the life of everything and everyone around me. I'll carry that with me everywhere I go.

A New Chapter at VeganLand

February 28, 2022

There are a myriad of reasons why horses will end up “last chance auctions." There they will be offered to the public, for sale to whoever will pay more than what their flesh is worth per pound at the slaughterhouse.

Two volunteers enjoy a vegan breakfast at Gentle World's visitor center in Hawaii

A Newfound Sense of Purpose

February 20, 2022

At 22 and 23, Laura and Libby came to Gentle World from their home town of San Marcos in Texas, hoping to find the inspiration to transition from vegetarian to vegan.

Gentle World thanks A Well Fed World

February 7, 2022

In 2021, plant foods advocacy organization A Well-Fed World provided Gentle World with an outreach grant, enabling us to expand our online education with the help of a subscription to the volunteering platform Catchafire.

Demons or Deities?

January 15, 2022

At the end of 2021, Gentle World volunteers put on our animal rescue hats once again. Quite unexpectedly, a little dog had come to us. She was starving and exhausted after braving the elements to escape an abusive situation.

Exciting News: Our First Vegan eBook!

December 13, 2021

For those who are new to veganism, we hope our free vegan eBook will be a helpful and informative guide. For those who are new to vegan advocacy, and those who have already heard these questions dozens of times yourselves, we hope that you’ll find it a valuable resource to assist you in fielding the inquiries of others.

The Peace I Needed

December 4, 2021

Although I was aware of it, you have made me connect with veganism in a different way. I'm going back home even more sure, convinced, and aware of my decision, as well as my responsibility and the impact that it can have in the future in the world.

Silhouette in the morning light of a hunter at the opening of Victoria's duck hunting season.

A New Way of Thinking and Living

November 3, 2021

35 years ago I went to see my sister who lived with Gentle World when they were based in Florida. I was a full-on carnivore when I arrived with a truck full of guns, fishing gear, and animal skins and…

One of Gentle World's volunteers stands smiling in front a giant Banyan tree

A Transformational Experience

October 30, 2021

Visiting Gentle World is not just an educational opportunity to learn more about veganism and sustainability. It is a one-of-a-kind transformational experience into a higher life of peace, harmlessness, spirituality, and compassion for all. When I stumbled upon Gentle World…

Our Partnership with Magical Creatures Sanctuary

October 11, 2021

Bella, Iolana, Naevia, Anela and Mirijam had been rescued as calves from a closing dairy, and rehomed at Magical Creatures. In 2020, to aid in the sanctuary's rescue efforts, they were brought to VeganLand, where they spent six months grazing on the abundant grass.

Authenticity

September 22, 2021

One of the most enriching experiences in my life took place in Gentle World. A few months ago I arrived on the Big island of Hawaii, carrying my dreams in a small backpack, looking to learn more about veganism.

Our June Visitors

June 30, 2021

After COVID restrictions brought a serious decline in visiting volunteers, we’re finally receiving inquiries again from an increasing number of people wanting to experience Gentle World.

A wide shot of one of Gentle World's veganic gardens in Shangri-La, New Zealand

Shangri-La’s Veganic Magic

March 8, 2021

Gentle World's master grower Magic Rees has hit a home run with his 2021 veganic ventures. Our readers were given a first glimpse of the new garden last September, and we are now over the moon to see his efforts quite literally coming to fruition.

My 40th Birthday Wish

February 15, 2021

A couple of weeks ago, a friend asked me what I find myself wishing for, as I approach my 40th birthday. Where can I possibly begin? Health and comfort for everyone I love. A light at the end of the…

Celebrating 40 Years!

February 11, 2021

February of 2021 brings with it the 40th anniversary of Gentle World’s incorporation as an educational organization. As we reflect on this milestone, we invite our readers to celebrate with us as we look to the future with a brand new vision for GentleWorld.org.

Garden Therapy

September 15, 2020

The expansion of Shangri-La's veganic growing will help us to provide even more farm-fresh veganic produce to our future guests and volunteers, as well as those participating in Te Whare Rongoa's plant-based nutrition counseling program.

Male hand with a pen and paper, with light shining in the window

Letters We Live For

September 13, 2020

I'm truly grateful, and I hope many more people will have the chance to see this beautiful place for themselves and learn what respect, compassion, and mindfulness really mean.

A Smile My Whole Body Feels

June 1, 2020

I had no idea how holistic of an experience this would be, and now I embark on this journey with a bigger, lighter heart. I leave feeling more connected to all worlds than ever before.

A double portrait of Gentle World's founders, then and now

50 Years of Veganism!

March 13, 2020

Back in 1970, Gentle World was not even a dream in the minds of its founders. But these two individuals were beginning to lay its foundation.

A 50th Veganniversary Interview with Light, GW co-founder

March 12, 2020

As we observe the Golden Anniversary of Light and Sun’s shared pledge to observe the Golden Rule, Gentle World’s co-founder Light is interviewed by Butterflies Katz about his 50-year experience with veganism.

Guests attending Gentle World's vegan film screening in Kaitaia, New Zealand

A Vegan Evening in Kaitaia, NZ

March 1, 2020

Gentle World is continuing our summer education program in New Zealand’s Far North, collaborating once again with Te Whare Rongoā for our first event at the Te Ahu cinema in Kaitaia. The evening was a big success, and we have…

Who I Really Want To Be

February 20, 2020

One of our favorite visitors of 2020, Sophia was a reminder of what a beautiful experience it can be to share our vegan knowledge with those who are open to receiving it.

The possum-proof fence around Gentle World's newest garden bed in New Zealand

Farming with Possums

January 20, 2020

With Shangri-La surrounded by native bush, we've had to find creative ways to live and farm alongside these persistent garden explorers. Living with possums presents a challenge, but we focus on finding nonviolent solutions.

Partnering with Te Whare Rongoā

December 19, 2019

Serving NZ's Far North community with a high percentage of Maori clients, Te Whare Rongoā (House of Medicine) offers well-being services through education in plant-based food and herbal medicine.

A beautiful little red-breasted bird perched on a branch

Letter from JP

December 18, 2019

When I came to visit you all, I was elated to find there were people like me and I was not alone. I will never forget those days as they molded me into the person I am.

A Gentle World volunteer manning the vegan booth at the Te Hiku Expo

Gentle World
at the Te Hiku Expo

December 15, 2019

With close to 400 people coming through the doors of Kaitaia's beautiful Te Ahu Center, our efforts at the Te Hiku Expo were met with unprecedented enthusiasm.

Sun Shines On

March 2, 2019

Those of us who have been inspired by this pioneering woman offer our heartfelt thanks for all she has given to us and to the world, and trust that she rests in the peace she has earned as a result of the countless lives that have been changed for the better thanks to her courage, her generosity of spirit, and her commitment to bringing to life her truly inspired vision of a vegan world.

Vegan Gathering

November 17, 2017

At the beginning of the month, Gentle World hosted an event that attracted over 70 vegans, for a beautiful day of education and celebration. In the year 2000, when Gentle World first came to the Big Island, there was no…

Co-founders of Gentle World vegan community Light and Sun

Pioneers of Peace

March 29, 2017

On February 22nd, Gentle World’s Co-founders Light and Sun celebrated their 47th veganniversary, providing living proof that vegan human beings can not only lead an exemplary, love-filled, respectful, responsible, caring, healthy, active and vibrant life, but also inspire countless others…

Happy smiling face of a vegan woman with glasses laying on the floor

Dawn

March 29, 2017

I told my friends, “I think it’s a vegan place... That should be interesting.” That night, I ordered chicken wings because I figured I’d better get some good food in beforehand.

Spreading The Message

March 28, 2017

Thank you for showing me this beautiful place. During these past 11 days, I’ve learned a lot about veganic gardening, communal living and also even more about veganism. I leave here even more passionate about veganism, and more passionate about…

Baby green plant seedlings growing in soil

Veganic Growing in Action

March 13, 2017

It's always a joy to give people the opportunity to reconnect with where the food we eat comes from, and the veganic cultivation of plant foods is a beautiful thing to take part in.

A Better Reality

March 7, 2017

Three years ago, we were fortunate enough to meet two wonderful people who came to us from Italy, and volunteered in Shangri-La for two seasons in a row, becoming part of our communal family for a time. Sadly, we have…

Plant-Based Medicine Event

November 20, 2016

On October 23rd, Island-based cardiologist Lawrence Derbes spoke at the Gentle World educational center in North Kohala, bringing his message of plant-based healing to dozens of inspired attendees.

blue sky heart clouds scaled e1626836251181

Dearest GW Family…

April 3, 2016

Today, it has been one month since I was part of your lovely community and worked in the garden. I felt so calm and at peace in Gentle World and everything felt good. I realized there, in that beautiful spot,…

A New Path

February 5, 2016

In December of 2015, on a very sunny spring day, I arrived at this hidden valley in the far north of New Zealand. My first week in Gentle World passed by so quickly, as I helped with weeding, cooking, cleaning,…

Vegan Voices

November 10, 2015

On October 18th, Gentle World welcomed over 60 people to our North Kohala center for an afternoon of education and inspiration. Guests had the chance to take home free samples of vegan alternative products, as well as enjoying a delicious…

New Friends…

October 7, 2015

Gentle World Family, Though our time here was brief, we are grateful for the exposure to the truth about animal exploitation. You gave us a strong definition of veganism. Thank you all so much for hosting us and teaching us…

Cloudy sunrise over veganic agriculture at Gentle World Hawaii

August Visitors

September 7, 2015

I cannot begin to describe how much I have learned and experienced the past week. I am absolutely grateful that life brought me here, even if it was for a fleeting period. I arrived here as someone curious about veganism,…

View from balcony of beautiful sunset at Gentle World's vegan community

Our June Guestbook

July 8, 2015

My vegan family! You guys transformed me into a person I am proud to be. I see life differently. I have noticed that I pay attention to the little things. My life in California was different. I wanted to help…

A beautiful close up of a pink four-petaled flower

Highlights From Our Spring Program

May 30, 2015

Since our return from Shangri-La in April, we have had the pleasure to get to know a number of beautiful people who have passed through our Hawaii home.

Gentle World: A Brief History

March 5, 2015

Gentle World's co-founder Sun offers her unique insight into the multi-decade history of the organization she helped to create.

pink flower supporting a single buzzing bee

My Vegan Corner of the World

March 5, 2015

My little corner of the world is a memorial garden to my best canine friend. I intentionally mixed in flowers throughou, both to attract pollinators, and because they brings color to my world even when the sun isn't shining.

Cowspiracy
on the Big Island

November 30, 2014

Last month we were thrilled to host a screening of the film Cowspiracy, which is a truly eye-opening exposé of the environmental and ethical impacts of animal agriculture, produced by Kip Anderson and Keegan Kuhn. With close to 60 very…

A close up of a white luculia flower cluster beginning to open

More From Our Visitors

October 3, 2014

As we say goodbye to September, it somehow seems as though the end of the year is right around the corner. This past season at our Hawaii location has been a wonderful time for visitors and volunteers.

Vegan author Will Tuttle speaking on stage

An Afternoon with Will Tuttle

March 4, 2014

Gentle World's latest vegan event was a blend of philosophy and food. Dr. Tuttle provided the philosophy, and Gentle World provided the delicious food that is the reward for living in alignment with that philosophy.

Table full of delicious vegan food for afternoon lunch

A Vegan Afternoon…

November 17, 2013

On November 9th, our Hawaii location was filled with excitement and enthusiastic attendees for “A Vegan Afternoon.” The event was chock-full of informative talks/videos, delicious food and resources to help people embrace the vegan way of life.Upon arriving, guests had…

A black dog with copper markings resting under a bush looks directly at the camera

The Spirit of Kisses

May 29, 2013

It was easy to forget that Kisses had good reason for behaving the way she did. She had been taught to fear. She hadn’t just chosen to believe that humans were dangerous. She had been forced to accept it on a very primal level – she had had it beaten into her.

An extreme close up of the shimmering pink and white petals of a lily

People Like You

May 1, 2013

When people experience the vegan awakening, it’s awe-inspiring to live alongside them as their thoughts begin to shift. As each of our new friends from around the globe expresses their realizations, we have the opportunity to share in their epiphany.

light over mountain shangri la e1626412015850

I Know I’m Doing the Right Thing

May 1, 2013

I was a vegetarian for two years when I arrived in Shangri-La. But I never really thought about veganism. I didn’t want to give up my cheese (I’m French, you understand?) The first words there were “Vegan is the first…

A monarch butterfly lands on a pink zinnia

Letters from our Visitors

April 1, 2013

from Jesse, United States: For me, visiting Gentle World was the beginning of my journey, but I was so impacted by the peaceful sanctuary and the amazing people who live in it, that I decided to come back to end…

Light and Sun celebrating 43 years of veganism

Our Dedication Will Never Waiver

March 29, 2013

We didn't know that there was a word "vegan" at the time. There were no health food stores, no tofu, and no animal rights movement that we knew of. We have been spreading the word since we knew there was a word to spread. If we kept silent and that silence allowed more animals to suffer, we would wonder if our words could have saved their lives.

Close up shot of a country path surrounded by magical wildflowers

It Must Have Been Lovely

March 2, 2013

43 years after Tom Paxton wrote such poignant lyrics mourning our impending loss, the loveliness of my own garden holds more meaning to me than ever... Will we always have flowers? Will the forest always have trees? Will meadows always be green?

The Shangri-La Experience

February 1, 2013

One of the most heartwarming experiences we have here in Gentle World is when we receive letters like these.

Gentle World at the 2012 Kohala Country Fair

October 26, 2012

The Kohala Country Fair this year was filled with local craft and gift vendors, food, music and games for all. With a record number of 50+ food booths ready to feed the crowd, among them was our Incredibly Delicious Vegan…

Florida Vegan Event a Huge Success!

September 29, 2012

On September 8th, Gentle World sponsored “It’s Easy to be Vegan!” – a free vegan educational day in South Florida that attracted over 200 people. This vegan extravaganza was facilitated by M. Butterflies Katz, along with a fantastic team of…

A tiny baby sparrow with eyes closed, sitting on a human hand

Phoenix Rising: A Second Chance

July 25, 2012

This tiny (but feisty) little fighter was covered with ants and just beginning to get her feathers. Our friend told us she frequently sees birds that have fallen from their nests, but this baby bird in particular seemed determined to survive.

A Gentle World in my Heart

June 30, 2012

Aloha Lovely Gentle Worlders... You were all so wonderful and my time at the farm was great. I LOVE my new cookbook and share it with anyone who is interested. I am happily cooking for hostels everywhere with the great recipes...

A Vegan Earth Day Celebration!

April 30, 2012

Earlier this month, Gentle World volunteers participated in a local Earth Day celebration, which brought the magic of plant-based healing to hundreds of people... What were we doing there? Serving food, of course!

A monarch chrysalis hands from a stunning red sunflower in a brightly-colored flower garden

Creating Magic…

November 17, 2011

My experiences here have kindled a new fire in me, so instead of story-telling I jumped right to the processing. What am I learning here? The questions keep coming…

A front view of Gentle World's gold and red farmhouse in New Zealand

Life in a Vegan Community

November 3, 2011

Because we're not willing to accept ‘the world as it is,’ we have joined together from different walks of life in order to work towards the building of a new one; both as a sanctuary for ourselves and as a model of what human beings can achieve.

Crowd of People Having Fun At The Kohala Fair

Kohala Fair 2011 – Bigger than Ever!

October 18, 2011

At the beginning of this month, a bustling group of Kohala Country Fair-Goers learned why mealtime is our favorite time at Gentle World! This annual event always attracts thousands of attendees, but a change of venue made the Country Fair…

A woman blindfolded in a black eye mask, with black background

You Can’t Return to Ignorance

September 26, 2011

On the one hand, the decision seemed pretty easy. On the other hand, my parents own a farm. They raise animals for meat, and my mum milks cows for a living. So, I had a big crisis on my hands about how to bring those alternative points of view in line.

Full healthy happy and proud volunteers and co-founders at Gentle World

Gentle World on New Zealand National Radio

June 29, 2011

Gentle World and veganism were featured on nationwide New Zealand radio this month, with a slot on a show called Spectrum, where we had an opportunity to speak to over 80,000 people throughout New Zealand and the rest of the world.

Black and white image of two hands holding each other by a window

Enjoying the Riches of the Vegan Lifestyle

May 25, 2011

Back in April, we received a beautiful letter from Eric and Lilly, two of our all-time favorite penpals who came to visit as wwoofers back in 2010, and have stayed in touch ever since about their vegan-making ventures.

Two youngsters surrounded by garden plants

Garden Fun with Little Ones

March 30, 2011

A few weeks ago, we had a super-fun day here in Shangri-La, as we hosted a gathering of aspiring little gardeners from the local Playcenter.

Woman Holding A Place With Vegan Food From A Cooking Class at The Herb Shack New Zealand

Sharing the Joy of Vegan Cooking

March 30, 2011

On Saturday, March 12th, Gentle World volunteers hosted a free vegan cooking class at our favorite NZ venue: The Herb Shack. With 22 attendees who showed lots of interest in the vegan culinary techniques, the day was a fantastic success!

Woman's hand holding a white chicken's egg with a basket of eggs to the side

Waking Up: Vegetarian to Vegan

March 30, 2011

I came to Gentle World’s Vegan Education Center inspired by a friend’s email suggesting it as an interesting place to visit and drawn by the veganic gardening concept. I thought, “what the heck, why not WWOOF for a week and see what happens?”

Gentle World’s Giant Pear!

March 30, 2011

Every now and then, our veganic growing program rewards us with a giant vegetable or piece of fruit… To give you some idea of the scale, the flower to the left is a magnolia, which usually measures between 6 and…

Harvest Time

February 27, 2011

Here in Gentle World, we sometimes forget that many people don’t have the luxury of enjoying home-grown vegetables, let alone delicious veganically-grown fruit… But in Shangri-La, thanks to the hard work of our team of dedicated volunteers and expert gardener…

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