________________
our family. Friendliness and compassion are no longer held dear, a rise in envy has changed the meaning of happiness.
There is greater focus to out-compete or succeed over our friends instead of a spirit of cooperation and mutual growth and success. Family structures, social networks, economic and national relations are being lost.
If one were to limit one's boundaries to a smaller area and stay true to that promise, they would allow others to also have the opportunity to grow. To resolve this problem the practice of Digvrata (limit of directions) may allow a person to minimize his confusion resulting from over achievement. This vow of Digvrata would bring more balance to our economy and equality amongst our community. This will help break down jealousy and hatred and instead foster goodwill for all.
The intent of wider awareness is not
conversion, but to increase the appreciation
of the benefits that Jainism can bring
to daily life in all societies. Jainism is not defined as a religion
or sect, but a "practice of Living" which may help people
in all strata resolve many of the imbalances
in their universe.
Consumerism has led to an ecological imbalance. People have become obsessed with material desires and a constant need to improve their physical bodies. This has caused an explosion in the demand for products and services for these industries, which in turn has led to over-production of these goods by their manufacturers. These activities lead to ecological destruction and depletion of natural resources which are eventually exhausted. To prevent this wanton destruction and restore ecological balance, one must practice Bhogopbhoga Pariman vrat. By practicing this vow, we help in saving our resources by decreasing demand and therefore decreasing production.
Another problem is unnecessary violence. We reinforce this behavior by watching horse races, using cosmetic products that require testing on animals or supporting ideas of increase in armaments. This only exacerbates the problem in our society. By practicing Anarthdanda viraman vrat, we may limit our use of unnecessary cosmetic products and lend our support to non violent practices, thus reducing violence and promoting kindness and compassion.
In present era there is need to understand the significance of these three small vows. Conventions, Meditation and yoga camps, spiritual seminars and other religious efforts are the ways through which one can understand the religious values and their importance in modern age. The intention of arranging this kind of activities is to minimize the individual selfishness and develop the feelings of humanity and unity. But only by attending such spiritual events is not enough. To create a peaceful, healthy and balanced environment one has to bridge the gap between knowledge and conduct by practicing Jainism in daily life.<>
"Peace is a daily, a weekly, a monthly process, gradually changing opinions, slowly eroding old barriers,
quietly building new structures."
John F. Kennedy
11 BiennialdAINA Convention 2007
For Private & Per 143 se Only
PEACE THROUGH DIALOGM Forary.org
