$JES 983 Being Jain In College An Experiential Guide 2nd Edition

Author(s): Sonali Vakharia
Publisher: JAINA Education Committee

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EXPLAINING JAINISM TO OTHERS
09 - Explaining Jainism to Others
In college, I used to get uncomfortable explaining myself to others, because I did not want to deal with conflict, arguments, and judgment. But, we have all heard people speak so confidently about their faith, so why shouldn't we? I had a friend who would make me explain to him what my reasons were for everything I did - including why I ate or didn't eat certain things. My friend said that the reason he questioned me so often was to give me practice for the real world -- and he was right. I get questions about my beliefs all the time at work. For this reason, you need to know why you do something and be confident about it.
Think about being in the other person's shoes -- how can you break this down for them so they can understand? Sometimes it may seem like it's easier to direct them to the internet, but I think it's better to take the time to explain it well to them. Presenting it well is the key way to get your point across: So here is something which may help you out a bit
The Jainism Elevator Pitch If you're looking for short, sweet answers that are to-the-point, Yogendra Jain, author of the book The Jain Way of Life and a great teacher and mentor, has created something short but detailed enough that you could basically describe Jainism on a short elevator ride. Here's what he's calling the "What is Jainism?" Elevator Pitch:
Jainism is a religion and a way of life. For thousands of years, Jains have been practicing vegetarianism, yoga, meditation, and environmentalism. Jains have three core practices: Non-Violence, Non-Absolutism, and Non-Possessiveness (Ahimsa, Anekäntaväda, and Aparigraha - AAA).
Non-Violence is compassion and forgiveness in thoughts, words, and deeds towards all living beings. For this reason, Jains are vegetarians. Non-Absolutism is respecting views of others. Jains encourage dialog and harmony with other faiths. Non-Possessiveness is the balancing of needs and desires, while
BEING JAIN IN COLLEGE
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