JAINA Convention 2011 07 Houston TX

Author(s): Federation of JAINA
Publisher: USA Federation of JAINA

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JAINA CONVENTION 2011
"Live and Help Live"
PREFACE
"Only a Life lived for others is a Life Worth While"
Albert Einstein
The 16th Biennial JAINA Convention theme of "Live and Help Live" emphasizes the idea to live a life of worthiness by serving others.
Jain way of life is based on three core principles (Jain AAA's) of Ahimsa (compassionate living), Aparigraha (responsible living), and Anekantvad (social living). A butterfly and a flower on this souvenir's cover page illustrate the ancient Jain scriptural maxim "Parasparopagraho jivanam - all life is bound together by mutual support and interdependence. A butterfly needs the nectar from the flower to live and survive, and the flower needs the help of the butterfly to pollinate and thrive.
The souvenir mainly gives an opportunity for you to gain knowledge and inspiration from the live examples and experiences of community members. It provides great articles in English, Gujarati and Hindi giving an inner touch to the real life. Furthermore, a unique set of articles goes beyond not only giving real life stories but also provides tools for anyone to put into practice locally, nationally and internationally.
The relevance and significance of the Theme of the Convention could not have come at a better time than now in the wake of natural disasters like earthquakes, tsunami, tornadoes & floods occurring worldwide and also the ongoing struggle over poverty, hunger, disease and illiteracy across the globe. Let us all resolve to live, act and contribute responsibly, and make this world a better place to live. "One day your Life will flash before your eyes, Make sure its worth watching." We have made a humble attempt to inspire you to go and practice what Jain religion teaches us, to go and serve living beings. We hope you will be proud to watch the glimpse of your life.
The Souvenir Committee is grateful for the responsibility and opportunity to produce this publication. We thank the advertisers and well wishers for their sponsorship in support of this effort. Regrettably not all the material received by the committee could be included in this publication due to space constraints. For such omissions, other inconsistencies and errors, if any, we offer our sincere "Michchhami Dukkadum". The articles presented here express the views and opinions of the respective authors for which, no responsibility, expressed or implied, is assumed by JAINA and its volunteers.
Your Souvenir Committee
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