Int Jain Sangh NJ 2000 04 Mahavir Jayanti

Author(s): Int Jain Sangh NJ
Publisher: USA International Jain Sangh IJS

Page 28

January 8, 2000 : A page from my Diary - Sandeep Jain
I was eagerly looking forward to 8th Jan when the International Jain Sangh had planned to have the program on YOUTH AND JAINISM IN THE NEW MILLENIUM, where we had invited young, enterprising , energetic youth to participate in topics covering
Vegetarianism and Non Violence Impact of Cultural Diversity and Multi-religious society Parents and You ( Parents role in your life)
Rajiv Jain and I were playing the role of facilitators, I was a bit sceptical in the beginning as to how the topics would evolve and what kind of involvement would be coming forth. But was I in surprise twenty five youths mixed very fast in the absence of their parents and after some snacks were raring to go for discussions. The topics were prioritized and discussion started. One topic led to other and it was matter of few minutes every one had a point to make.
The participants have accepted vegetariansim as way of life and take pride in promoting awareness , more so in todays context as vegetarianism is being followed world over. Non Violence is associated with Vegetarianism to some extent, but by nature most of the Indians are non violent anyway, but when it comes to agressiveness or taking a stand they are well equipped to face any challenge.
The group felt that there are cultural differences and because of which they have had instances where they were made acutely aware of this specially more so in middle school were it is very difficult to make others aware of your social standing, but later on in higher classes as one matures these differences are accepted and other qualities are noticed. They were thankful that their parents have not tried to force Jainsim on them and they had the freedom of accepting it themselves. They realize that Jainism is a very scientific religion and anyone who follows the principles of Jainism can become a Jain. It is probably a very practical religion to adopt as it a way of life.
The most debated topic was Parents and You and interestingly almost all felt that the differences happen because of the fact that most of their parents have been raised in India in a protected environment, hence they would like to do the same for their children. A general feeling was that it is their life and only when they face hurdles or make mistakes will they be able to become a better person. They felt that there is no subsitute for experience and hence parents should necessarily have faith in their ability and judgement.
The time just flew and before we realized it was time for dinner, all felt that more such programs be arranged in future covering discussions, lectures (technology, finance, religion etc), dine and dance and cultural activities. Each one of them should get one more friend in the next gathering to participate.
It was indeed a good gathering and I was quite impressed with the manner in which the topics were discussed, everyone participated with enthusiasm which made it a success. Thanks to the host Neelam Jain and Sangya Jain for good food.
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