$JES 921 Book of Compassion Reverence For All Life Reference Book

Author(s): Pramoda Chitrabhanu, Pravin K Shah
Publisher: JAINA Education Committee

Page 57

11 - THE MYTH ABOUT MILK
Pramoda Chitrabhanu Jain Meditation International Center, New York
11 - The Myth about Milk
Since our childhood we have been made to believe that milk gives nourishment and is good for the bones. Yes, mother's milk is good. But who says we need milk of other animals for the rest of our life. Even the animals do not drink another animal's milk after weaning away from their mother's milk. Then why do we continue drinking milk? Is it necessary or are we doing it out of habit and conditioning?
Do you know that the glass of milk on your table is meant for an innocent calf? How would you feel if your child were denied its mother's milk? We never try to relate such problems with the animal kingdom. As though they are meant for human exploitation, we continue abusing them. The milk that we drink comes from the cows and buffaloes that are tortured, tormented, and abused in every way. How can we talk about non-violence (Ahimsä) when there is violence in our living? Isaac Singer, the Nobel peace prizewinner, once said, "How can we ask mercy from God if we cannot give mercy to others." We will only get what we give. If we give joy to others we will get joy but if we give pain, we will only get pain in return.
So, let us find out the real story behind the milk industry and learn about the horrifying conditions under which the cows are being milked. The following is an excerpt taken from the book "Heads and Tails" by Menaka Gandhi where she explains the fate of cows. This happens in India and in the other parts of the world where cows are exploited and badly abused.
THE BOOK OF COMPASSION
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