I’m so shocked by the negative responses you got. I can only guess that the responses are shame-based and reactionary. People often react to people who are vegetarian or vegan negatively because it strikes a chord. Most people know how animals are treated in factory farms/the meat and dairy industries but they want to justify their behavior and dismiss those who make the compassionate choice. I’m sorry they are taking it out on you.

Your mother had no right to lie to you about what you were eating. Its deeply disrespectful in addition to unkind and not ok. I’m sorry that happened to you.