A few definitions to start!

Hello and welcome to the new blog. To get things started, let's figure out what exactly we're doing and why it's so fundamentally different than what's already been done. First, the terminology:

• Cacaoism: Respecting the elements of the things we consume and energy we use- the elements of all life forms of all sizes. Cacaoists recognize the need for respecting life, yet acknowledge the terminal nature of life. Cacaoists see cacao as the perfect symbol of how life and death both give amazing gifts to the world. While cacao is a symbol, we consider our faith to be without any particular deity. We consider all life to possibly be a deity or that there may be no deity at all.
• Practicing Cacaoism: To believe in Cacaoism, one can consume any mind altering substance to help gain perspective and understanding of the world around them. The slower and more deliberate the product, the more understanding and appreciation is gained for the item. Chocolate is the most common analogy used in practicing Cacaoism, but wine, beer, cigars, herbs, and more are encouraged.
• Political Positions: Cacaoists fight for the rights of the pure cacao plant. 
• Additives are seen as "only when absolutely necessary" and as a "last resort". We will fight current and future laws that are diluting the definition of chocolate and help create a clear definition of "cacao" or "cocoa" to be shared internationally. 
• Cocoa, as a commodity, should be taken OFF the commodities market to help maintain a non-speculative and more reliable trading atmosphere. Never should the whims of speculative traders alter the livelihoods of poor farmers or prevent true economic growth in developing areas.

Well I'm happy with this start! If you have any questions about Cacaoism, or if you would like to be a cacaoist, please comment below or send questions or comments to: thecacaoist (at) gmail.com