Book Title: Ahimsa is not Religion It is way of Life
Author(s): Clare Rosenfield, Linda Segall
Publisher: Clare Rosenfield and Linda Segall

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Page 14
________________ Our physical evolution follows according to this inner refinement. Just as milk and water becomes indistinguishable in a mixed form, so soul and matter seem to be inseparable while they are participating mutually in a continuous process. When we become aware that we have been journeying from beginning less time from one form of life to another, from one lifetime to another, our life's purpose becomes clearer. Also, our compassion for less developed life forms is increased. We realize that we too, had to pass through those stages. Once we were among them; one day they will be among us. When we discover that as humans, we are now at the highest rung of the evolutionary ladder, a new gratitude overwhelms us. We are no longer helpless. We can take charge of our lives and take the last step of evolution consciously. For that, we work toward freeing ourselves from remnants of previous instinctive stages_ignorance, anger, greed, fear, competitiveness. We stop generating pain and start regarding each other with reverence and respect. Prosperity-consciousness replaces emotional aridity, and an appreciation of the universe's bounty erases the feeling of poverty and lack. HOW CAN WE LIVE IN THIS WORLD WITHOUT TAKING LIFE AND CAUSING VIOLENCE? In Jain philosophy, the answer lies in taking care to minimize the harm one does and to direct one's actions with the intention to revere life. This requires vigilance, awareness of motives, and fearlessness to live in tune with nature's laws. The underlying 13 Jain Education International For Private & Personal Use Only www.jainelibrary.org

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